Historic - Métis Nation of Ontario

Transcription

ISSUE
NO
. 75,
SPRING 2013
Issue
No.
78,
Midwinter
2013
Manitoba Métis Federation v. Canada
Historic
ruling
1885
favours
the Métis
2003
TRiel
Louis
MNO President Lipinski pleased with decision
he lobby of the Supreme Court and rights amid concern of encroaching
of Canada building in Ottawa Canadian settlement.
was crackling with excitement
The federal government, however, disas Métis from across the home- tributed the land through a random lottery;
land gathered there the morning as a result the Métis became a landless
of March 8, 2013, to learn the aboriginal people, with few Métis receiving
Supreme Court of Canada deci- what they had been promised.
sion concerning Manitoba Metis FederWhen the case finally reached the
ation v. Canada (the “MMF case”).
Supreme Court in December 2011, the
The MMF case represented over 140 Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) obtained
years of Canadian history and Métis had intervener status in order to offer its support
waited a long time for its resolution. It and to ensure that the voice of Ontario
had gone through almost
Métis was heard in this
every legal hurdle imagiimportant case. The MNO
nable and taken over 30 “After our long hunt
was represented at the
years to reach the Supreme
Supreme Court by Jean
for justice in the
Court. The case was based
Teillet, the Métis lawyer
landmark Powley
on the claim that Canada
case, we knew it was who, 10 years earlier, repbreached its fiduciary and
resented Steve Powley at
important for us
constitutional obligations
the Supreme Court and
to be here at the
owing to the Manitoba
who is the great niece of
Supreme Court.”
Métis by failing to fulfill
Louis Riel. MNO President
the lands and benefits they
Gary Lipinski, as well as
— MNO President,
Gary Lipinski
were promised as Aborigimany MNO citizens and
nal negotiating partners in
MNO staff members were
Confederation. These
in the foyer on March 8
promises are embedded within sections awaiting the decision in solidarity with
31 and 32 of the Manitoba Act, 1870, which their Manitoba colleagues including MMF
are a part of Canada’s constitution.
President David Chartrand as well as Métis
The Manitoba Act committed to set aside Nation of Alberta President Audrey Poitras
1.4 million acres of land for 7,000 children and Métis National Council President
of the Red River Métis, which includes Clement Chartier.
the modern city of Winnipeg. The land
“After our long hunt for justice in the
grants were meant to give the Métis a head landmark Powley case, we knew it was
start in the race for land in the new province important for us to be here at the Supreme
and were offered in order to settle the Red Court,” explained President Lipinski. “We
River resistance, which was caused by
continued on page 3
Métis struggling to hold onto their land
Day
— Continued on page 10
4 0 02 5 2 6 5
& powley anniversary events
2013
Scenes from the
Supreme Court of
Canada as the MMF v.
Canada decsion is
released on Friday
March 8, 2013.
Framework
Agreement
Farming
remembrance
day
mnO
success
stories
disCOver
capote
workshop
aga
region
9 Consultation
Framework
Agreement.
Committee tours
Page 3
wind farm
local
events and
veterans.
training strengthen
Page
mnO communities
métis
highothers
schoolers
Allard and
achieve
gathered
in
mattawa
their career goals.
for march Break Page 28
Join
us MNO
this summer
like the
Grand River
to
celebrate
years
Métis
Council’s20
capote
of
achievement
coat workshop.
Page 23
MNO & Ontario
sign
the
Wind
extension of historic
Page 5
MNO & community
COunCils
councils remember Métis
24
Pages 7-10
Learn how MNO
Culture
programming helped Nick
Page 11
Read about exciting
2013
community council events
Page 12
2
Métis Voyageur
Midwinter 2013, Issue no. 78
The
Métis
Voyageur
Midwinter 2013, No. 78
Produced by the
Métis Nation of Ontario
Communications Branch:
Emmanuel Akohene-Mensah
Alysha Akoodie
Mike Fedyk
Marc St. Germain
Family
Chief Tecumseh Tribute
By: Jon Rochon, President of MNO Windsor Essex Kent Métis Council
Contributors:
Alysha Akoodie
Nick Allard
Mark Bowler
Jane Brennan
Cora Bunn
Mitch Case
Richard Cuddy
Malcom Dixon
Liliane Ethier
Mike Fedyk
Larry Ferris
Greg Garratt
Theresa Hendricks
Marissa Hendricks
Steve Henschel
Lawrence Hill
Anne Huguenin
Linda Krause
Marc Laurin
Gary Lipinski
Glen Lipinski
Sharon McBride
Judie McKenney
Mandy Montgomery
Melissa Perreault
Brenda Pont
Amanda Pont-Shanks
Jon Rochon
Loma Rowlinson
Storm Russell
Ken Simard
Jennifer St. Germain
Theresa Stenlund
Jean Teillet
Huguette Trottier-Frappier
Marie-Claire Vignola (Ethier)
James Wagar
Doug Wilson
Wenda Watteyne
Submissions:
Mike Fedyk
Director of Communications
Métis Nation Of Ontario
500 Old St. Patrick Street, Unit D
Ottawa ON K1N 9G4
[email protected]
MNO Windsor-Essex Métis Council President Jon Rochon, his daughter Sienna Rochon and father MNO Windsor-Essex Métis Council Councillor
Wilfred Rochon at the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Thames.
O
n September 21, Métis
Nation of Ontario (MNO)
Windsor-Essex Métis
Council President Jon Rochon,
wife Debrah and daughter Sienna
attended the Town of Tecumseh’s
celebration commemorating Chief
Tecumseh and the First Nation contributions of the War of 1812.
The event featured a bonfire,
marshmallow roast, a complimentary
BBQ, a presentation by Tecumseh descendent Patricia Shanoo, as well as
music and speeches from the Point
Ken Simard, MNO Region 2 Captain of the Hunt
Moose call
very successful
Jan. 17, 2014
Publication #: Pm 40025265
Submission Policy:
Excepting letters to the
editor and submissions to the
family and passages sections,
submissions should not be
written in the first person.
Submissions written in the first
person will either be changed
to the third person or not
published.
The recommended length for
a submission is between 400
and 600 words. Submissions
longer than that may be
edited for length.
cillor Wilfred Rochon, also attended
the 200th anniversary of the Battle of
the Thames on October 5 in Thamesville. At which battle, Chief Tecumseh
was killed trying to create a First Nations homeland. ∞
Captain’s Corner
Next Deadline:
MNO encourages contributions
from MNO citizens and staff.
All submissions are edited
to conform to the Canadian
press style guide as well as
for grammar, repetitiousness,
spelling and to accurately reflect
the official names and titles of
individuals, organizations, bodies
and agencies referenced in
submissions.
First Nation Drum Group, Caldwell
First Nation, local history groups and
representatives. At the event, a permanent plaque commemorating the
event was unveiled.
The Rochon family, now joined by
MNO Windsor-Essex Council Coun-
Bill Smith, a former
president of the Métis Nation of Ontario
(MNO) Thunder Bay
Métis Council, goes
hunting every September with his brother
Doug. Both are very
proud of their Métis
ancestry and continue
to involve Métis traditions and Way of Life
in their everyday lives.
This September, the
two were fortunate to
have harvested a moose
their first time out. Bill’s
moose call is distinct.
It’s a technique which
has proven to get the
moose running right to
him. Bill is more than
willing to teach other
MNO citizens how to
call for moose effectively. ∞
MNO Region 2 Captain of the Hunt Ken Simard with his long-time
friend Esko Savala cruising across Lake Superior.
Captain Ken takes
to the waterways
Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO)
Region 2 Captain of the Hunt Ken
Simard recently joined his long-time
friend Esko Savala in navigating a 45
foot yacht from the Big Shute in the
Trent River to Thunder Bay.
The journey began by crossing
over into the rapids which lead to
the Georgian Bay. They arrived at
the Midland Bay Port Marina to fuel
up and get some rest. The next day,
Captain Ken took his turn at the
wheel and navigated the ship for
an hour and a half to Tombermory.
One of the highlights of the trip
was when they passed a commercial
fishing boat that was flying a Métis
flag. The ship had just lowered its
nets and Captain Ken waved and
flashed his Métis sash with pride.
Throughout the rest of the journey they made their way to the top
end of Lake Huron; to the Marina in
Sault Ste. Marie; to Batswana Bay;
and back down Lake Superior. They
had great weather and the lake was
calm. They docked safely in Thunder Bay. ∞
MNO citizen Bill Smith during his first harvest of the year.
3
Métis Voyageur
Nation
MNO & Ontario extend
Framework Agreement
n Friday, November 15, just two days shy of the fifth anniversary of the signing of the historic MNO-Ontario
Framework Agreement, the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) and the Government of Ontario signed an agreement
to extend their current Framework Agreement until a new agreement can be put in place. The signing took place
at a special dinner commemorating the 10th anniversary of the landmark R. v. Powley Supreme Court decision,
and only two days after a meeting between the MNO leadership and MNO senior staff with the Right Honourable
Kathleen Wynne, Premier of Ontario and the Honourable David Zimmer, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs.
The meeting with the Premier and the Minister took place on November 12 in Toronto.
Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of
Ontario (PCMNO) members, President Gary
Lipinski, Chair France Picotte, and Youth
Representative Mitch Case, with MNO Chief
Operating Officer Doug Wilson also participated. During the meeting the MNO representatives stressed the success of the MNO-Ontario Framework Agreement that was originally
signed on November 17, 2008. “MNO communities and people have achieved success
after success,” indicated President Lipinski,
“in all areas right across the board: from the
Métis Voyageur Development Fund; to Memo-
Signatories and
witnesses to the MNOOntario Framework
Agreement extension. (Left
to right) PCMNO Youth
Representative Mitch
Case, MNO President
Lipinski, the Honourable
David Zimmer, Minister of
Aboriginal Affairs and MNO
Senator Brenda Powley.
MNO leadership and senior
staff with Premier and Minister
at Queen’s Park on November
12. (Left to right) MNO COO
Doug Wilson, MNO Chair
France Picotte, Minister David
Zimmer, Premier Kathleen
Wynne, MNO President Gary
Lipinski and PCMNO Youth
Representative Mitch Case.
randums of Understanding with government
ministries, universities and colleges; to the
renewal of the Aboriginal Healing and Wellness Strategy; to the many Duty to Consult
and Accommodate engagements across the
province, to name only a few items – we have
achieved a great deal working together with
the Government of Ontario.” President Lipinski stated it was an MNO priority to renew
the MNO-Ontario Framework Agreement and
continue building on the successes already
achieved.
The province agreed that as the current
Framework Agreement expired on November
17 this year that the current agreement should
be extended while a new Framework Agreement continues to be negotiated. MNO and
government officials were able to draw up the
particulars of the extension agreement quickly
and Minister Zimmer was able to announce
the agreement extension during provincial
Louis Riel Day ceremonies at Queen’s Park
on November 15.
President Lipinski and Minister Zimmer
signed the agreement extension that same
evening at the Powley Anniversary event.
“This [agreement] is a true reflection of the
positive relationship we have been building
with the Ontario government certainly since
the signing of the first Framework Agreement,”
stated President Lipinski. He added, reflecting
on the early years of the MNO, when previous Ontario governments were not interested
in working with the Métis: “It is such a relief
to have government whose priorities line up
so much with our priorities. We share a focus
on children and youth; to encourage them to
be the best they can be, and health and the
environment that connects to the work going
on with the Green Energy Act. It is rewarding
to go and meet with the Minister and the Premier to discuss all
successes we are
achieving by working together.”
PCMNO Youth
Representative
Mitch Case and
MNO Senator
Brenda Powley also
signed the agreement as formal
witnesses. Mitch’s
participation symbolized the bright
future of the Métis people that the
Framework Agreement will help realize while Senator
Powley’s (who was
also a signatory on
the original 2008
agreement) participation demonstrated the link to
the sacrifices and
dedication of the
MNO’s founders to
building the Métis
Nation.
The signing of
the extended agreement was followed
by another im— President Lipinski
mensely symbolic
moment. Jean Teillet, the Powley case Lawyer and great grandniece of Louis Riel, on behalf of the MNO,
presented Minister Zimmer with the most
recent version of her book, Métis Case Law.
Beautifully decorated with a cover by Métis artist, and daughter of past MNO President Tony
Belcourt, the book is a massive compendium of
all legal cases and precedents related to Métis
rights in Canada.
The extension of the MNO-Ontario Framework Agreement will be in force until the two
governments negotiate a new agreement. Negotiations on this agreement are ongoing and a
good result is anticipated in the not too distant
future. ∞
It is such
a relief
to have
government
whose
priorities
line up
so much
with our
priorities.
We share
a focus on
children
and
youth; to
encourage
them to
be the
best they
can be.”
4
Métis Voyageur
A day to reflect on gender-based violence
Working together to eliminate violence against women
The following message was sent to all MNO citizens from President Lipinski on December 6, 2013
T
oday I am writing you not only
as the President of the Métis
Nation of Ontario (MNO) but
also as a son, a husband, a father of
a young woman and as a man who
wants to end violence against women.
The National Day of Remembrance
and Action on Violence Against Women in Canada commemorates one of
the great tragedies in Canadian history.
On December 6, 1989, 14 women at
L’École Polytechnique de Montréal
were murdered in cold blood for no
other reason other than that they were
women. Since then December 6 has
become a day that all Canadians can
reflect on gender-based violence and
ways that communities can take concrete actions to eliminate all forms of
violence against women and girls.
While gender-based violence af-
fects everyone, part of the legacy of women. In some northern Ontario
colonialism is the cycle of intergen- communities it is estimated that 75 to
90 per cent of women
erational trauma resulting
experience violence.
from systemic abuse that
These are not numhas left generations of AbStatistics clearly
bers. These are our sisoriginal women particuindicate that
ters, moms, grandmas,
larly vulnerable to acts of
Aboriginal women
aunties, daughters and
violence and crime. Staare significantly
tistics clearly indicate that
over-represented as granddaughters.
There are over
Aboriginal women are sigvictims of assault,
3,000
missing or prenificantly over-represented
sexual assault,
sumed
dead Aboriginal
as victims of assault, sexspousal abuse and
women
across Canada
ual assault, spousal abuse
homicide... These
and
many
communiand homicide. Métis, First
are not numbers.
ties
have
walked
to
Nations and Inuit women
These are our
bring
awareness,
to
are three and a half times
sisters, moms,
more likely to experience
grandmas, aunties, bring change, and
to acknowledge and
spousal violence than nondaughters and
remember these lost
Aboriginal women. The
granddaughters.”
women. We have
rate of spousal homicide
for Aboriginal women is eight times called for action and public inquiries
greater than that of non-Aboriginal into the murdered and missing Ab-
original women but we still wait for
answers.
It is not enough however to wait
for others to take action. Accordingly
since 2010 the MNO, along with the
Ontario Federation Indian Friendship
Centres, Ontario Native Women’s Association, Chiefs of Ontario, and Independent First Nations, has been part
of the Joint Working Group to End
Violence Against Aboriginal Women.
Together we are committed to addressing the root causes of abuse within our
Aboriginal communities.
The MNO has also, with funding from the Ministry of the Attorney
General, initiated a Victim Services
program. This program offers services
at 18 MNO offices across Ontario and
advocates for victims while also supporting and building violence-free
communities. Recently we have se-
cured funding and are working with
our partners to address sexual violence
and the human trafficking of people
with a focus on high-risk areas like
Thunder Bay.
While ongoing programs and
awareness will help, the responsibility for healing our communities from
violence against women lies with all
of us. On December 6, 2013, please
take time to remember all the victims
of gender-based violence and join us
in working to end all forms of violence
against women.
Thank you, Marsi, Megwetch! ∞
Gary Lipinski
President, Métis Nation of Ontario
MNO continues leadership role in efforts to
reduce violence against Aboriginal women
Submitted by: Wenda Watteyne, MNO Director of Healing and Wellness
O
n O ctober 21, Mét is Nat ion of O ntario
(MNO) C hair France Picot te represented
President Gary Lipinski on behal f of t he
MNO at a meet ing of t he members of t he
Joint Working Group (J WG) on V iolence Against
Aboriginal Women (VAAW). The Honourable Teresa
Piruzza, Minister Responsible for Women’s Issues
and t he Honourable David Zimmer, Minister of
Abori ginal Affairs were bot h in at tendance.
The MNO has been a key
player in advancing the agenda to
end VAAW. It has participated in
five summits on ending VAAW, is
a full signatory to the Framework
to End Violence Against Aboriginal
Women and an active member of the
JWG on VAAW since its inception
in 2010. The MNO has also been
integrating awareness about VAAW
within the MNO and in particular
the Women’s Secretariat of the MNO
has been heavily involved in this
critical issue. Also representing the
MNO were MNO Chief Operating
Officer Doug Wilson and MNO
Director of Healing and Wellness
Wenda Watteyne.
The meeting was the second
opportunity for the JWG, which
consists of 10 provincial ministries,
the MNO, the Ontario Federation
of Indian Friendship Centres, the
Ontario Native Women’s Association, the Chiefs of Ontario and Independent First Nations to report on
its progress. The MNO commended
the Government of Ontario for supporting efforts to reduce the very
high rates of violence affecting Métis, First Nations and Inuit women
in Ontario and called upon the two
lead Ministers to report back to their
cabinet colleagues on progress and
ongoing challenges articulated in
the meeting. It is expected that the
JWG will continue to convene on an
annual basis. ∞
Joint Working Group on Violence Against Aboriginal Women representatives during the October 21 meeting
in Toronto. (Left to right). Front row: MNO Chair France Picotte, Minister Teresa Piruzza, Minister David Zimmer,
Sheila McMahon (Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres), and Dr. Dawn Harvard (Ontario Native
Women’s Association). Back row: Tobias McQuabbie (Shwanaga First Nation), Grand Chief Harvey Yesno
(Nishnawbe Aski Nation), Deputy Grand Chief Denise Stonefish (Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians), and
Lynda Lynch (Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek First Nation).
5
Métis Voyageur
Métis back
in the courts
Daniels case Federal Court of Appeal hearing
(From left to right) Professor Lee Stuesser, Founding Dean of Lakehead University’s Faculty of Law;
Lakehead President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Brian Stevenson; Deputy Grand Chief Goyce Kakegamic,
Nishnawbe Aski Nation; Chief Gary Allen from Treaty #3 (signing on behalf of Grand Chief Warren White);
Regional Grand Chief Peter Collins from the Union of Ontario Indians; and President Gary Lipinski from
Métis Nation of Ontario.
Lakehead
University’s
Faculty of Law
signs Aboriginal
Protocol
Agreement
November 27, 2013 – Thunder Bay, ON
L
akehead University officials have signed a protocol agreement
with Nishnawbe Aski Nation, the Union of Ontario Indians,
Grand Council Treaty #3, and Métis Nation of Ontario to
establish a strong, meaningful and respectful working relationship
regarding the Faculty of Law.
The agreement brings together
these Aboriginal leaders who will
meet on a semi-annual basis to
discuss issues relating to Aboriginal perspectives of the law.
“I look forward to working
with First Nation and the Métis
Nation organizations in furthering
the Faculty of Law’s mandate of
focusing on Aboriginal law and
understanding of Aboriginal issues, the needs of small practitioners, and natural resources law,”
said Faculty of Law Founding
Dean Lee Stuesser.
“This protocol agreement establishes a much-needed process
for ongoing engagement with the
Aboriginal community so priorities from our perspective are
identified and understood,” said
Nishnawbe Aski Nation Deputy
Grand Chief Goyce Kakegamic.
“It is essential that the Faculty
of Law remain engaged with First
Nation and Métis political organizations to ensure that our perspectives on historical and emerging issues are reflected through
the curriculum,” Deputy Grand
Chief Kakegamic added.
“Lakehead University, with the
new Law School and agreements
with First Nations, has taken a
positive step in creating a strong
environment for our young men
and women to be positive role
models in the world of education,” said Union of Ontario Indians Regional Grand Chief Peter
Collins.
“Treaty #3 is known for the
treaty promise of a shared learning through an education system
that provides opportunities for all
Anishinaabe to reach their goals,”
said Grand Chief Warren White of
Grand Council Treaty #3.
“The commitment to an ongoing relationship and a forum
where Anishinaabe input into the
study of Law through this protocol agreement is of great value
and will benefit those educated
in the program and the communities and individuals they will
one day work for,” Grand Chief
White said.
“As an Aboriginal government
in Ontario, the Métis Nation of
Ontario (MNO) is excited to
partner with Lakehead University and other Aboriginal governments through this protocol
agreement,” said MNO President
Gary Lipinski.
“Métis participation in the
Faculty of Law at Lakehead will
help address obstacles Aboriginal people face when pursuing
post-secondary education, permit
a focus on Métis law, attract more
Métis to the legal profession and
train lawyers who understand the
needs of Aboriginal people and
communities,” President Lipinski
added.
Lakehead President and ViceChancellor Dr. Brian Stevenson
said this agreement is important
because the Faculty of Law owes
its existence to the commitment
of communities in Northwestern
Ontario.
“Nishnawbe Aski Nation was
one of the groups that approached
Lakehead University to create the
Faculty of Law,” Dr. Stevenson
said. “We value our partnerships
and look forward to working with
all of these groups to make the
Faculty of Law the best it can be
for this community and the region.” ∞
M
étis Nation of Ontario acknowledged responsibility for the
(MNO) was present as Métis,” said MNO President Gary
an intervener at the Dan- Lipinski. “If the ruling goes in our
iels case Federal Court of Appeal favour, we will be in a much stronhearing which took place in Ottawa ger position to press the government
for negotiations on a whole range of
from October 29-31.
issues.”
The question
Teillet explained
before the court is
the importance of
if Métis fall under
the case and MNO’s
federal jurisdiction.
“Depending
involvement as an
Due to the signifion the outcome
intervener.
cance of the case
“The idea of
to Métis rights, the
of the case, it
whether we are
MNO successfully
could potentially provincial jurissought out interdiction or federal
vener status in the
impact Métis
jurisdiction is very
case and Métis lawpeople across
important to know,”
yer Jean Teillet repexplained Teillet.
resented the MNO
Canada because
The main point
at the Federal Court
the federal
Teillet made on beof Appeal.
half of the MNO
The Federal
government
was in regards to
Court Trial Division
has not yet
how the term “Inreleased its long-andian” in section
ticipated judgment
acknowledged
in Constifor Daniels v. Canresponsibility for 91(24)
tution Act, 1867
ada on January 8,
should be inter2013. The case was
the Métis.”
preted.
initiated by now de“The proviceased Métis Leader
— President Lipinski
sion shouldn’t be
Harry Daniels, for
the purpose of forcing the federal interpreted as racial provision,”
government to acknowledge that explained Teillet. “We should be
Métis people fall under the jurisdic- looking at Aboriginal and Métis
tion of the federal government and peoples… as collectives, as a people
should enjoy rights and recognition with their own customs and tradicomparable to First Nations. The tions. I am going to be making a
Federal Court of Canada ruled that lot of submissions about them not
Daniels v. Canada establishes that looking at this as a racial provision,”
Métis fall under federal jurisdiction she continued, “and also supporting
and meet the definition of “Indian”, the final judgement which is that
outlined in the Canadian Constitu- Métis are federal jurisdiction as are
tion. After which, the federal gov- all Aboriginal people.”
The federal government has deernment appealed the decision.
“Depending on the outcome of nied its responsibility for the Métis
the case, it could potentially impact and the case has been before the
Métis people across Canada because courts for 13 years. ∞
the federal government has not yet
(Left to right) MNO President Lipinski with Métis lawyers Jason Madden
and Jean Teillet and Métis Nation of Alberta President Audrey Poitras
earlier in the year at the Supreme Court.
6
Métis Voyageur
MNO
Métis Youth
Ready to Work
Transitions to the Labour Market workshop
On November 16, 2013 Métis youth from across the
province gathered in Toronto to attend the Métis Nation
of Ontario (MNO) Métis Youth Ready to Work: Transitions to the Labour Market workshop.
This one-day workshop offered a unique opportunity for Métis youth to connect with Métis culture and
history, develop new skills and experiences, as well as
engage with fellow Métis youth.
The workshop featured an overview of the MNO
including an in-depth focus on MNO’s education and
training programs. A resume writing workshop, job
preparedness orientation and a budgeting class were
also facilitated.
John Budarick, a Métis paramedic addressed the
group and shared his experiences completing postsecondary education and the struggles and successes he
encountered when entering the workforce. ∞
Across
the homeland
British Columbia
Saskatchewan
Métis culture
and heritage
supported in B.C.
Saskatchewan’s
Black Rod features
Métis sash and
Infinity symbol
The Métis Nation of British
Columbia (MNBC) recently
received a $20,000 community gaming grant from the
Ministry of Community, Sport
and Cultural Development to
use towards Louis Riel Day
cultural events.
Through this generous
contribution the MNBC was
able to provided funds to its
communities to hold cultural
events and other activities
that commemorate Louis
Riel. As a result, hundreds of
MNBC citizens gathered in
their regions throughout British Columbia for Métis flag
raising and other ceremonies
over the past few weeks.
The official unveiling of the
Black Rod of Saskatchewan
was held on September 23
at the Government House in
Regina. The Black Rod represents the symbolic guarding of
the Legislative Assembly and
will be wielded by the first
Usher of the Black Rod, Rick
Mantey.
The Black Rod incorporates
symbols from all walks of Saskatchewan life. The incorporation of the Métis Infinity symbol and sash speaks clearly to
the significant role the Métis
played in the development of
the province.
Source: Métis Nation of British
Columbia
Source: Métis Nation of Saskatchewan
ALBERTA
Manitoba
Métis Nation of
Alberta releases
first report on
Métis health
status
Manitoba Metis
Federation
officials present
recommendations
to United Nations
Special Rapporteur
Participants of the MNO Métis Ready to Work workshop. (Left to right) (Front row) MNO Education and
Training Branch Administrative Coordinator Guylaine Morin-Cleroux, Danielle Dupas, Devyn Parmeter, Terri-Lynn
Koury, Amber Griffths and MNO Supervisor of Special Projects Chris McLeod. (Back row) Kelly Campagnola,
Kara Campagnola, Warren Cardinal-McTeague, Jessica MacLean, Matthew Lafreniere, Sahra MacLean, Rheiner
Kammer, Alexandra Dusome, Cameron Hartman, MNO Senator Dr. Alis Kennedy , Sydney Ducharme, MNO
Post-Secondary Education Officer Sheila Grantham and MNO Navigating Employment Coordinator Rae-Anna
Gardner.
On November 15, the Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA)
released a report on the
health status of Métis Albertans. The report, called
Health Status of the Métis
Population of Alberta, is the
first of its kind and was made
possible as a result of an Information Sharing Agreement with and a $250,000
grant from Alberta Health
to the MNA. The grant was
used to develop a public
health surveillance program
to better understand the
health status of Métis Albertans. The report used 2009
data to analyze topics such
as Métis use of health services, mental health, chronic
disease, injury and mortality.
Métis paramedic John Budarick addressed the group about his experiences completing post-secondary
education and the struggles and successes he encountered.
Source: Métis Nation of Alberta
Officials of the Manitoba
Metis Federation (MMF) met
with United Nations Special
Rapporteur on the rights of
indigenous peoples, James
Anaya, on October 11 for a
dinner and cultural activities.
Anaya was visiting Canada
to examine the situation of
indigenous peoples in the
country as a follow up from
2004.
The MMF recommendations focused on Métis land
claims, Métis self-government, and issues around Métis lands and resources and
economic development.
Source: Manitoba Metis Federation
7
Métis Voyageur
Launch of MNO Métis
Baby Bundle Book
F
rom October 17-18, the Métis
Nation of Ontario (MNO) attended the final dissemination
meeting of the Indigenous Knowledge Network for Infant, Child and
Family Health (IKN) national project
at the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal
Health in Ottawa.
The MNO is one of five community partners involved in the project.
The goal of the IKN project is to enhance Métis and First Nations infant,
child and family health in Ontario
and Saskatchewan by developing
an indigenous knowledge network
to gather, synthesize and apply locally relevant indigenous and public
health knowledge to culture-based
parenting and infant/toddler health
promotion programs.
The final meeting provided an
overview of the project methods,
deliverables and outcomes. All five
partners presented a unique frontline
oral history and knowledge sharing
project processes and findings.
The MNO presented the newly
created Métis Baby Bundle Book as
its knowledge application project. An
initiative lead by MNO staff members
Amanda Cox and October Fostey,
the Métis Baby Bundle Book puts
traditional knowledge in a form that
will always be remembered and can
be passed down through generations.
The book was presented at the meeting by Fostey and MNO staff mem-
MNO representatives and friends at the launch of the Métis Baby
Bundle Book during the IKN final dissemination meeting. (Left to right)
MNO Senator Reta Gordon, Dr. Janet Smylie, MNO staff members
October Fostey and Jo MacQuarrie and Carleton University Adjunct
Research Professor Mike Patterson.
The Métis Baby Bundle Book cover.
ber Jo MacQuarrie. MNO Senator
Reta Gordon was also in attendance.
During the presentation, Fostey
described the process in creating the
Baby Bundle Book. Fostey and Cox
dedicated a day per week for the past
five years to conduct interviews with
Métis elders in their communities in
order to compile traditional knowledge and stories.
“How we were going to use the
stories and the knowledge from the
elders was unclear in the beginning
but as I thought about how I wanted
to use the stories to pass on it came
to me so very clearly, a baby book”
explained Cox in a note as she was
unfortunately unable to attend the
final meeting.
“This would not have been possible without the help of the Métis
elders who shared their stories with
us,” said Fostey. “I cannot thank
them enough.”
The Baby Bundle Book includes
stories and inspiring quotes collected
from Métis elders on the topics of
family, parenting and first baby experiences with plenty of room to record
personal stories and pictures.
Five years in the making, the IKN
project is led by Research Scientist
for the Centre of Research on Inner
City Health at St. Michael’s Hospital Dr. Janet Smylie who is of Métis
descent.
“It has been an honour and privilege to act as the principal investigator for this five year, Canadian Institute’s for Health Research funded
project,” said Dr. Smylie.
In addition to the Baby Bundle
Book, Fostey and Cox had to submit digital stories explaining their
involvement with the network. These
videos were also presented during
the meeting. ∞
Canada’s most vulnerable:
Improving health care for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis seniors
A new report by the Health Council of Canada says that governments must make a greater effort to collaborate to improve health care for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis seniors.
The report, Canada’s most vulnerable: Improving health care for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis seniors, shows they often do not receive the same level of health care as non-Aboriginal Canadians because of poor communication, collaboration, and disputes between governments about who is responsible for the care of Aboriginal people. The Métis Nation of
Ontario (MNO) contributed the following passage to the report:
One third of all Aboriginal people in
Canada are Métis, a fact few people in
Canada realize. The Métis population is
also an older population compared to other
Aboriginal groups. Our research has shown
that many Métis seniors are experiencing
significantly higher rates of chronic disease
and other complex conditions compared to
non-Métis Ontarians. There are also unique
barriers to Métis seniors receiving the care
and support they require. For example,
Métis people fall under a different legislative and regulatory structure than do other
Aboriginal groups and do not have access
to programming supports such as the NonInsured Health Benefits available to many
Aboriginal peoples. Many Métis seniors also
live in remote and rural areas, where access
to services and supports can be limited.
For Métis seniors with limited incomes,
things like transportation to see doctors
and specialists, and having the means to
fill expensive prescriptions, can also serve
as barriers to care. Finally, access to cultur-
ally safe care can be a challenge for older
Métis citizens.
It is for all these reasons and more that
the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) provides programs and services at the community level. Situated in 18 Métis communities
distributed across the province, and based
on a wholistic, family-centred model of care
which is firmly rooted in Métis culture and
way of life, MNO community centres serve
as important cultural and service hubs that
link our Métis citizens to each other, and
to essential health services and supports in
their local areas. The MNO community centres are especially important in providing
our Métis seniors with the kinds of culturally grounded services and supports they
need, along with help in accessing medical
services. Some of our MNO centres also
offer specialist services such as foot care
clinics for seniors and other Métis people
suffering from diabetes. MNO community
centre workers do much in the way of outreach to Métis seniors in need of assistance,
visiting their homes to help with things
like meal preparation, house maintenance,
and other tasks of daily living, while at the
same time providing that important cultural
connection and support. Through the MNO
Community Support Services program we
are also able to provide transportation services to help Métis seniors travel to and
from their medical appointments.
For the many Métis seniors who are
suffering from significantly higher rates
of chronic diseases and other conditions,
MNO community centres provide a place
where they can meet with other Métis community members and receive much-needed
support and care, and get help in linking to
essential services and programs within the
broader community. The centres also provide a haven for culturally safe community
care, essential to the well-being of all our
Métis citizens. ∞
A full report is available on the
MNO website at www.metisnation.org
8
Métis Voyageur
Welcome Aboard
to new staff and to staff starting new positions
01:
Anne Wilken
A
01
nne joins the Ottawa MNO office in the position of
Finance Branch Administrative Coordinator.
Anne is an enthusiastic person with an Accounting
Diploma and several years of experience in accounting.
Anne also creates and sells jewellery that she designs!
Anne is looking forward to working with everyone in MNO
and we are pleased to welcome her to the team.
Submitted by: Judie McKenney,
Director of Finance
02:
02
Devon Martin
D
evon joins the Toronto MNO office in the position
of Consultation Intake Clerk with the MNO Lands,
Resources and Consultation Branch.
Devon is a young and ambitious professional with several
years of office work experience. In the past he has worked in
the insurance and medical industries. He has been the Director
of Concessions on the Oshawa Curling Club’s Board of Directors since 2011 and enjoys curling during his downtime. He
enjoys challenges and is looking forward to working with the
Métis Nation of Ontario.
Submitted by: Mark Bowler,
Director Lands, Resources and Consultation
03
03:
dr. brian tucker
D
04
r. Brian Tucker, formerly the Manager of Métis Traditional Knowledge and Land Use with the MNO Lands,
Resources and Consultations Branch has become the
new Associate Director of Education and Way of Life with the
MNO Education and Training Branch. He will continue to work
out of the Fort Frances MNO office.
Brian is an ecologist specializing in terrestrial ecology and
spatial statistics, with additional background in ecological
restoration. He was born and grew up in Northwestern Ontario (Fort Frances), where by following a traditional lifestyle
he fostered and maintained a close connection to the lands
and waters of the area. Brian has studied at the University of
Alberta in Edmonton (Ph.D. in Ecology), Laurentian University
in Sudbury (M.Sc. in Biology & B.Sc. in Environmental Earth
Science), and Confederation College in Thunder Bay (3-year
Environmental Engineering Technology). Brian taught for
three years at Confederation College before joining the MNO.
Submitted by: Jen St. Germain,
05:
rachelle brunelle-Mccoll
R
achelle joins the Midland MNO office in the position
of Employment Developer for Region 7 with the MNO
Navigating Employment Pathways Program.
Rachelle has been involved in the MNO since 2003 when
she served as the MNO Youth Project Officer in Midland. She
has maintained an active role within the Métis community
since then by organizing cultural events and is a past volunteer
with the Regional Advisory Committee. Her education and
work experience in the tourism and hospitality industry as
well as her commitment to Métis culture make her a welcome
addition to the MNO.
Director of Education and Training
06:
velvet johnson
V
elvet Johnson, formerly Procurement Officer with the
MNO Finance Branch, has become a Contracts and
Project Officer with the MNO Education and Training
Branch. She will continue to work out of the Ottawa MNO
office.
Velvet started her journey with the MNO in 2001 with the
MNO Education and Training Branch and the Branch is very
pleased to have her return. Her background with the MNO
provides her with excellent understanding of employment,
training and business functions as well as file management.
Velvet is a graduate from the Aboriginal Studies program at
Algonquin College. Since graduating from Algonquin College,
Velvet has taught a number of courses at the College and she
continues to play an integral role in the coordination of the
Aboriginal Studies Program.
paloma d’silva
P
aloma joins the MNO Toronto office in the position of
Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO)
Métis Relations Resource Program Coordinator with the
MNO Lands, Resources and Consultation Branch.
Paloma is a licensed geoscientist-in-training with the Association of Professional Geoscientists of Ontario (APGO), and
a graduate from Western University, with a Bachelor of Science
in Environmental Earth Science.
Submitted by: Mark Bowler,
Director Lands, Resources and Consultation
05
04:
Emmanuel Akohene-mensah
E
mmanuel joins the MNO Ottawa office in the position
of Communications Coordinator with the MNO Communications Branch.
Emmanuel is a creative designer with 6 years of experience and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from the
University of Ottawa and an Interactive Multi-Media diploma
from Algonquin College.
06
Submitted by: Mike Fedyk,
MNO Director of Communications
The MNO is very excited
to have these new staff
members join the team and
congratulations Brian and
Velvet on their new positions!
9
Métis Voyageur
A journey from addiction to support and discovery
W
hen traveling to our communities across the province, I often
hear stories from Métis Nation of
Ontario (MNO) citizens about the incredible
work being done by our MNO staff. What
follows is a testimonial from one MNO client
that speaks to the work being done and the
kinds of success that are being achieved by
MNO staff. It is a moving story about how the
MNO assisted her on her personal journey
to wellness.
We are grateful to the client for sharing her
experiences with us and for permitting us to
publish them in the Métis Voyageur. This kind
of genuine and unsolicited feedback cannot
help but provide further motivation to MNO
staff members who work in our communities
in many different fields across the province; to
do the very best they can in service delivery.
We commend the client for her progress.
She is an inspiration to all and the MNO will
continue to support her and learn from her
experience. In her case, she was overcoming
an addiction but all our clients face hurdles
whether they are dealing with a healing and
wellness issue or trying to obtain education
and training, find a rewarding job or suitable housing. It is the dedicated and tireless
work of MNO staff members that often make
a huge difference in breaking down barriers
and creating success stories like the one you
are about to read.
Gary Lipinski
T
he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) has many benefits for Métis people,
benefits I have experienced firsthand. I am very fortunate that this organization is part of my life and wanted to share with you how the MNO
helped me become the woman I am today.
I am a recovering drug and alcohol addict who also has bipolar, a disorder that
I was not aware of until later in my life. I
would like to be a speaker for our youth
to let them know my story. A story of addictions, the journey it took me on and the
consequences I have had to live with because
of my actions. The worst of these being the
affect it had on my children whom I have
minimum contact with because of my actions as an addict.
Recovery is a long journey and for me,
without the help of the MNO and their
Community Wellness Workers (CWW) Lisa
and Terry-Lynn and of course my husband,
I wouldn’t be the sober person I am today.
Before contacting the MNO I was going
through a bad part of my life. I was in a very
abusive relationship which I was coping
with by using drugs and alcohol every day.
I was also a single mother of two children
and a student at Niagara College.
It was on November 1, 2009 that the
support services staff at Niagara College connected me with the MNO.
The MNO office in Welland set me up
with CWW Terry-Lynn Longpre. I saw Terry-Lynn one to two times a week. Terry-Lynn
began the healing process by connecting
me to community support programs. The
first person I saw was my drug and alcohol
counsellor Dave Labbe of the Native Friendship Centre in Fort Erie. She also connected
with Dr. Chan, a psychiatrist I saw through
MNO’s telemedicine program. This was a
life saver as Dr. Chan was able to discover
the root of my problem and diagnosed with
bipolar disorder.
Kicking the habit was very hard. I needed
a new environment; I needed to get out of
Niagara. With the support of Terry-Lynn
and my new husband Dan, we did just that
and moved to Woodstock in December
2012. MNO’s support followed me through
this move. Once in Woodstock, Terry-Lynn
connected me with a MNO CWW based in
Hamilton, Lisa Scott.
I started seeing Lisa every week. The
challenges she put me up to included many
classes at the Domestics Services of Oxford,
an organization that works hand in hand
with the MNO. These classes provide helpful
information on life skills, addictions, etc.
Lisa also had me attend an anger management course which I have pretty much
completed. Part of this course includes the
completion post-traumatic demoralization
syndrome papers, which I work on daily.
La joie de partager mon héritage métis
Par: Marie-Claire Vignola (Ethier)
D
e janvier à juin 2013, j’ai eu le privilège de travailler pour le Conseil scolaire catholique Franco-Nord à titre de personneressource en éducation autochtone. Dans le cadre de ce travail, j’ai pu partager mon héritage métis dans les écoles
d’Astorville, de River-Valley, de Sturgeon Falls, de Verner et de North Bay. Les professeurs et les élèves se sont montrés très
accueillants et réceptifs à savoir plus sur les communautés autochtones du Canada et en particulier sur la nation métisse. Plusieurs
présentations d’emontraient la ceinture fléchée des Métis; je vous partage un chant que j’avais composé pour l’événement.
Through all of this work, I am glad to say
that I now only need to see Lisa every three
weeks.
I know if it wasn’t for Terry-Lynn, Lisa,
Dr. Chan, Dave and Dan I would either be
in jail, still using or even worse, dead. They
all have continuously pushed me to not
only become sober but also become a better person and mother by challenging me in
everyday life skills.
Terry-Lynn and Lisa are always there for
me, no matter if it is positive or negative moment in my life. I want to thank the MNO for
hiring these two loving, caring ladies. They
have inspired me, helped me and have made
me a better, loving, non-angry person again.
Without their love and support I would not
be where I am today.
I am extremely proud to say that I haven’t
used drugs since December 2012 and only
had one release on alcohol since then.
Today I feel great being sober and I am
a loving mother to my two children again.
HATS OFF TO THE Métis Nation of
Ontario! Each day I thank the creator for
them! ∞
Métis
Sash
Submitted by: Anne Huguenin
Air: C’est l’aviron qui nous mène
(Légère variante: ajouter une 4e ligne au couplet
sur le même air que la 3e ligne)
Refrain:
C’est la ceinture, la ceinture, dite métisse
C’est la ceinture, dite aussi, fléchée
(1) Regard’ le rouge de la ceinture métisse
Regard’ le rouge de la ceinture métisse
C’est tout le sang qu’les Métis ont versé
C’est toutes les vies qu’ils ont bravement
données-ées
(2) Et puis le bleu de la ceinture métisse
Et puis le bleu de la ceinture métisse
Ça fait penser à leur beau caractère
Comm(e) le ciel bleu et les grandes rivières!
(3) Voyez le vert de la ceinture métisse
Voyez le vert de la ceinture métisse
On dirait bien les arbr(es) de nos forêts
Comm(e) les Métis qui vivront à jamais-ais
Marie-Claire avec les étudiants taisant une prière pour remercier le
Créateur lors d’une belle journée ensoleillée.
English version
Chorus:
-3-
We are Métis, we’re a proud and happy nation
Look at the BLUE in all the Métis sashes
We wear the sash, love to sing, and jig
Look at the BLUE in all the Métis sashes
Sung to the tune of a Voyageur French Traditional:
It speaks of depth, the depth of Métis spirit
C’est l’aviron qui nous mène
(4) La couleur jaune de la ceinture métisse
La couleur jaune de la ceinture métisse
C’est le soleil et nos beaux champs de blé
Et des Métis, tout(e) la prospérité-é
-4-1-
Look at the GOLD in all the Métis sashes
Look at the RED in all the Métis sashes
Look at the GOLD in all the Métis sashes
Look at the RED in all the Métis sashes
It speaks of hope, and prosperous tomorrows
It speaks of men who spilled their blood, resisting
(5) Puis c’est le blanc de la ceinture métisse
Puis c’est le blanc de la ceinture métisse
Qui chant(e) bien fort l’amour du Créateur
Et le respect des Métis dans leur coeur-oeur
Et des Métis, tout(e) la prospérité-é
-5-2-
Look at the WHITE in all the Métis sashes
Look at the GREEN in all the Métis sashes
Look at the WHITE in all the Métis sashes
Look at the GREEN in all the Métis sashes
It speaks of faith, and love of the Creator
It speaks of life that flows and never ceases
The Métis Sash I wear with pride
For that is who I am inside
Like woven threads we wear our symbol
We are strong, us Métis people
Times were not easy and struggles were many
But we survived and had furs of plenty
Spirits of elders, like beads that were sewn
Fiddle music runs through our b ones
Our feet eager to get up and jig
Like a colourful rainbow whirligig
The Métis Sash we wear with pride
For that is who we are inside
Stories of this portaged land
Métis people, we proudly stand
Our journey from Drummond Island
To Penetanguishene
With many hard miles in between
We trap, we hunt, we fish
In giving thanks we say “Migwetch”
Let the spirits live within our souls
White be our skin or darkened coal
We wear the Métis sash with pride
For that is who we are inside
Métis Voyageur
10
1885
Riel
2003
Louis
Day
The following message was
sent to all MNO citizens
from President Lipinski on
november 15, 2013
L
ouis Riel Day commemorates the anniversary of
the execution of Louis
Riel on November 16, 1885.
Riel made the ultimate
sacrifice for defending Métis rights and although these
events took place in the West,
his resistance had repercussions for Métis in Ontario. We
were labelled traitors and for
generations our culture was
forced underground. We became the“forgotten people.”
Today, we are no longer the
“forgotten people” because we
assert our Métis rights, and by
doing so, take up the mantle of
Louis Riel. It is for this reason
that Louis Riel Day is a cause
for celebration in our communities across the homeland.
It is a day to remember our
past, live our culture and reaffirm our determination that
our children will inherit all
the rights Louis Riel fought so
bravely to protect.
Louis Riel Day is especially
poignant this year because
2013 marks the tenth anniversary of R. v. Powley, the
monumental Supreme Court
of Canada case that affirmed
the Métis right to harvest is
protected under section 35
of The Constitution Act, 1982.
In their decade of struggle to
have their Métis rights recognized, Steve and Roddy Powley
were fighting the same battle as
Louis Riel. On November 16, 2013,
I encourage you to join with your community and your
Nation in Louis Riel Day
events. It is a day to proclaim
proudly as both Louis Riel
and Steve Powley did: “We
are Métis.”
Gary Lipinski
President, MNO
Finding balance
Provincial Louis
Riel Day ceremony
highlights
Every year, Métis from across the Homeland honour the anniversary of the
unjust execution of Louis Riel on November 16, 1885, by holding Louis Riel
Day events. Although Louis Riel Day commemorates one of the great tragedies
of Canadian history, it is also a day to celebrate Métis culture and the continuing progress the Métis people towards taking their rightful place within
Confederation.
Queen’s Park Ceremony
Many Métis Nation of Ontario
(MNO) chartered community councils held flag raisings, feasts and
cultural celebrations to recognize
Louis Riel Day and as in the past,
provincial ceremonies were held at
Queen’s Park in Toronto. Provincial
ceremonies take place at Queen’s
Park because the Northwest Rebellion monument and the Legislative
Building are both located there. This
year the provincial ceremony was
held on Friday, November 15, rather
than the traditional November 16,
because the Legislative Building
would not be open on the weekend and access to the Legislature is
necessary to properly stage the ceremonies. Ironically, the Legislature is
where a price was put on Louis Riel’s
head and the monument recognizes
the Canadian soldiers who fought in
the Northwest Resistance against the
Métis, but on Louis Riel Day they
are the focal points for honouring
Riel and the monument is draped
with Métis symbols and a portrait
of Louis Riel is reverentially placed
upon it.
It was a beautiful fall day in Toronto for this year’s provincial ceremony. Over 100 people attended
from the Toronto area as well others
from across the province, including
some people who came from as far
away as Thunder Bay. As in the past,
events started with a flag raising ceremony in front of the Legislature.
APTN, OMNI and City TV news
reporters were on hand to witness
MNO President Gary Lipinski and
Mitch Case, the Youth Representative on the Provisional Council of
the Métis Nation of Ontario (PCMNO), raise the Métis flag while a
crowd of MNO citizens, dignitaries
and guests looked on and cheered
enthusiastically.
2013
tar. The No. 10 Legion Branch has
been participating in Louis Riel Day
ceremonies for 13 years and their
dedication and service was commented on by several of the speakers
during the ceremony that followed
the procession.
The procession made its way
to the Northwest Rebellion monument where the official Riel Day ceremony was held. PCMNO Senator
Rene Gravelle provided the opening
prayer and gave thanks for the many
blessings received by the Métis and
for bringing people of many different affiliations together on Riel Day.
MNO Chair France Picotte, emceed
the ceremony and set a positive
tone by welcoming everyone and
acknowledging guests and dignitaries. In addition to those who would
later speak in the ceremony, other
dignitaries and guests in attendance
included Minister of Economic Development, Trade and Employment
Dr. Eric Hoskins, Member of the
Provincial Parliament Rosario Marchese, Member of Parliament, Dr.
Carolyn Bennett, Deputy Minister of
Aboriginal Affairs David DeLaunay
and Assistant Deputy Minister for
Aboriginal Affairs Hillary Thatcher
as well as proponents who work
with the MNO, John O’Toole and
Lisa Thompson.
The first speaker was PCMNO
Executive Senator Reta Gordon who
told the story of Riel’s death. She
related the difficulties his family had
in recovering his body and returning it to his home in Manitoba for
burial. She commented that Riel told
us “We can have beautiful dreams ...
and that we should believe in those
(Continued on page 11)
Riel told us:
We can have
beautiful
dreams ...
and that
we should
believe in
those dreams
and believe in
ourselves.”
— Senator Reta Gordon
Following the flag raising, the
participants formed a procession led
by members of the No. 10 Branch
of the Royal Canadian Legion and
accompanied by Métis fiddler Alicia
Blore and her brother Liam on gui-
(Top) Métis rights lawyer and great grand-niece of Louis Riel Jean
Teillet speaking at the Queen’s Park Louis Riel Day ceremony. (Bottom)
Legion Colour Guard proudly carry Métis flags.
11
Métis Voyageur
(Continued from page 10)
dreams and believe in ourselves.”
Senator Gordon was followed
to the podium by MNO Vice-chair
Sharon McBride. Vice-chair McBride
spoke about her recent trips to the
Archives to examine copies of old
newspapers from the period of the
North West Resistance and Louis
Riel’s execution. She was shocked
by the anti-Métis racism she found
in these historic documents and
although this saddened her it also
gave her strength as it demonstrated
the resilience of the Métis people in
overcoming prejudice, which was
particularly demonstrated on Louis
Riel Day. “The people of the Métis
Nation,” she declared, “will always
keep his [Riel’s] spirit alive.”
Vice-chair McBride was followed
by the Honourable David Zimmer,
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs. Minister Zimmer spoke about the significance of the dual anniversaries that
the MNO is celebrating in 2013.
Commenting on the tenth anni-
Powley was
instrumental
in recognizing
Métis rights
as well as in
recognizing the
distinctiveness
of Métis
culture and
communities.”
Roddy, Paul, Brenda and Evelyn Powley prior to the Louis Riel Day ceremony at Queen’s Park.
— Minister David Zimmer
versary of the R. v. Powley Supreme
Court decision, Minister Zimmer
stated: “Powley was instrumental in
recognizing Métis rights as well as
in recognizing the distinctiveness of
Métis culture and communities. He
also read a scroll from the Government of Ontario congratulating the
MNO on the twentieth anniversary
of its founding in 1993. Minister
Zimmer went on to recognize that
this year is the fifth anniversary of
the MNO-Ontario Framework Agreement which was signed in 2008.
“The Framework Agreement,” explained the Minister, “is the basis for
our current collaborative relationship which has created many opportunities for partnerships. Among
the successes related to this agreement have been the Métis Voyageur
Development Fund, the New Relationship Fund, Feed-in Green Tariff
program, Housing Investment Strategy, Mattawa Research and the 2010
Year of the Métis.” (for a story on
the renewal of the MNO Framework
Agreement go to page 3).
Norm Miller, a Progressive
Conservative MPP represented
Opposition Leader Tim Hudak at the
ceremony. MPP Miller, whose
constituency of Parry Sound(Continued on page 12)
Senator Reta Gordon speaking at the
Queen’s Park Louis Riel Day ceremony.
MNO Vice-chair Sharon McBride speaking at the
MNO President Lipinski and Youth Representative Case look skyward as they raise the Métis flag
at Queen’s park.
Conservative MPP Norm Miller speaking at
the Queen’s Park Louis Riel Day ceremony.
Senator Rene Gravelle providing the
opening prayer during the Queen’s Park
Louis Riel Day ceremony.
12
Métis Voyageur
MNO President Lipinski speaks at the MNO/Law Society of Upper Canada joint Louis Riel Day event.
(Continued from page 11)
Muskoka overlaps with much of
the same area as the MNO Moon
River Métis Council spoke about
how much he enjoys attending
the famous Moon River fish fries
organized by that council. MMP
Miller also read a letter from Ontario
Legislative Speaker Dave Levac
congratulating the MNO on its
20 year anniversary as well as the
10 year anniversary of the Powley
decision and its many achievements
in that time. Speaker Levac is
Métis himself and although he has
attended Louis Riel Day ceremonies
many years in the past, he was
unable to attend this year.
Métis youth were well represented at the ceremony by PCMNO
Youth Representative Mitch Case.
Representative Case is extremely
active at all levels of the MNO.
He leads the MNO Youth Council,
serves as an MNO Infinite Reach
Facilitator and is very active on his
local chartered MNO community
council. All of that in addition to
his PCMNO duties! In his address
Representative Case spoke about
the emerging generation of MNO
leaders. “The Métis spirit is strong
among our youth,” he stated, “and
it is getting stronger everyday – I
promise!” (For the full transcript of
Representative Case’s remarks see
page 13).
As in most past years, the MNO
was honoured with the presence
of Jean Teillet at the Queen’s Park
Ceremony. Ms. Teillet is the great
grand-niece of Louis Riel and is the
famous Métis rights lawyer who
It is
encouraging
at this
moment in
history to be
working with
a government
as friends. It
is by working
together that
we will all
succeed.”
— President Gary Lipinkski
took the Powley case to the Supreme
Court of Canada. Ms. Teillet focused
her comments on the incredible
change in attitude towards the Métis
in Ontario, in particular within the
Ontario government, in the last 20
years. “In 2003 we couldn’t even get
the janitors [in the Legislative Building] to talk to us,” she explained,
“but today and for several years now,
we have government Ministers here
with us at this very ceremony.” She
added: “A lot of people gave of their
time and energy to this cause and
today we are on a good road – with
our current leadership we are doing well.”
The final speaker was MNO
President Gary Lipinski. President
Lipinski mourned the tragic lost opportunity represented by the execution of Louis Riel. He pointed out
that Riel had made every effort to
negotiate with the Canadian government and that the government’s
intransigence led to the events of the
North West Resistance. “We cannot
allow ourselves,” he declared, “to
be in a position where negotiations
fail.” President Lipinski explained
that Riel had sought balance and
that what had been missing until
recently in Canada and Ontario’s
relationship with the Métis. Referring to the North West Rebellion
monument and the lack of a similar monument at Queen’s Park recognizing Métis contributions and
achievements he stated: “In the
not too distant future, we hope to
even have balance of these grounds
[Queen’s Park].” President Lipinski
indicated that since the signing of
the MNO-Ontario Framework Agree-
ment that the need for balance has
increasingly been recognized and
respected in Ontario. “This is taking us from an era of denial,” stated
President Lipinski, “towards an era
of reconciliation.” He concluded by
saying: “It is encouraging at this moment in history to be working with a
government as friends. It is by working together that we will all succeed.”
The ceremony ended with the
laying of wreaths of remembrance
on the Northwest Rebellion monument. The wreaths were laid by
executive members of the MNO
Veterans’ Council; President Joseph
Paquette, Senator Dr. Alis Kennedy
and Sgt-at-Arms Greg Garratt. Most
of the speakers during the ceremony
recognized the sacrifices and on-go-
ing contributions of Métis veterans
and the laying of the wreath at the
monument by veterans is always a
poignant moment.
MNO Chair Picotte wrapped up
the ceremony on a thoughtful note
by stating: “On each Riel Day, I ask
those assembled to think back to the
last Riel Day and remember what
they have done to advance the Métis
Nation in the last year; and to also
think forward about what they will
do in the upcoming year for the Métis people.”
With the ceremony complete for
another year, the participants then
moved inside the Legislative building where they enjoyed a delicious
traditional Métis feast. ∞
Aboriginal Affairs Minister David Zimmer speaking at the Queen’s
Park Louis Riel Day ceremony.
Métis fiddler Alicia Blore and her brother Liam accompanied the Louis
Riel Day procession at Queen’s Park.
Métis lawyer and great grand-niece of Louis Riel Jean Teillet and
President Lipinski during the moment of silence at the Queen’s Park
Louis Riel Day ceremony.
13
Métis Voyageur
He
taught
us to be
proud
Mitch Case, PCMNO Youth Representative
T
he voice of youth is
very important to the
(MNO). Accordingly, PCMNO
Youth Representative Mitch
Case spoke on behalf of Métis
youth at the provincial Louis
Riel Day event and we are
pleased to present his complete remarks below.
Good morning ladies and gentlemen, elders, Senators, veterans, fellow youth, fellow Métis and members of provincial parliament.
I was asked to bring thoughts
and words about Louis Riel and his
legacy from the perspective of Métis
youth. When I asked this question
to other youth I received many inspiring answers.
“He taught us to be proud” they
said. “He showed us we should al-
ways stand up for what we believe
in”, “He showed us that it’s okay to
be who we are, okay to be Métis and
important to be proud.”
When I think of Riel, I often
think of the words he left behind for
us. He left us with so many quotes
that we can draw inspiration from as
individuals and as a Nation.
With this also being the 10th anniversary of the Powley decision, I
have thought often about what Riel
told his followers in 1885: “In a little
while it will be over. We may fail.
But the rights for which we contend
will not die.”
Riel was right, the battle in
1885 may have been lost, but we
as a people have remained and our
rights are now, over 100 years later,
being recognized and respected by
governments across Canada. This is
because our people never lost our
PCMNO Youth Representative Mitch Case speaking at the provincial Louis Riel Day ceremony.
courage to fight and for that, I thank
the Powley family, the lawyers, the
political leadership and the communities who stood with them through
the fight.
Riel told us: “We must cherish
our inheritance. We must preserve
our nationality for the youth of our
future. The story should be written
down to pass on.” This has and continues to be done by our people and
communities. The generations who
have gone on before us have made
sure that the stories of who we are
have never died.
Riel told us: “We would sleep for
100 years, but when they awake,
it will be the artists who give them
their spirit back.” I see this every
day, I see Métis youth picking up
beads, paint brushes, fiddles and
drums, lacing up their moccasins
to jig at every opportunity. The spirit
of the Métis people is strong among
the youth and it is getting stronger
every day.
Métis youth are standing up,
strong and proud as indigenous
people. They know their history,
they know their stories. They are
learning their culture, traditions and
languages. They know the history of
our people, but most importantly
they can see the future of our people.
I see the amazing work of the young
people I represent and I know that
because of all they do, our future has
never looked brighter.
Marcii, Miigwetch!
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The moderator
and panelists
at the MNO/
Law Society of
Upper Canada
event during
Louis Riel Day
commemorations.
MNO
leaders with
dignitaries
and guests
at the
Queen’s
Park
ceremony.
MNO veterans
prepare to
place a wreath
in honour of
Louis Riel.
MNO President Lipinski speaking at the
Provincial Louis Riel Day ceremony in Queen’s Park.
MNO Chair France Picotte at the Queen’s Park Louis Riel Day ceremony.
Susan Hare with the Law Society of Upper Canada presents MNO President Lipinski with a gift to commemorate the MNO’s 20th anniversary.
No. 10 Royal Canadian Legion members leading
the Riel Day procession at Queen’s Park.
MNO leadership and dignitaries at the Louis Riel ceremony on November 15 at Queen’s Park in Toronto. (Left to right)
Assistant Deputy Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Hillary Thatcher; Hon. Eric Hoskins, Minister of Economic Development,
Trade and Employment; Métis lawyer Jean Tillet; PCMNO Treasurer Tim Pile; MNO Chair France Picotte; Hon. David Zimmer,
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs; MNO President Gary Lipinski; and David DeLaunay, Deputy Minister of Aboriginal Affairs.
Riel
Louis
Day
2013
Louis Riel Day: A time to catch up with old friends.
The people of
the Métis Nation...
will always keep
Riel’s spirit alive...”
— Sharon McBride, MNO Vice-chair
16
Métis Voyageur
Louis Riel Day :
We feel it in our hearts
Louis Riel Day is a day of pride, honour, remembrance and unity. During this year’s Provincial
Riel Day ceremony at Queen’s Park, it was clear that the participants had the 20th anniversary of
the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) and the 10th anniversary of the historic Powley decision in
the forefront of their minds when we asked them to speak from their hearts about Riel Day.
“It is an honour to be here. I am so proud to be
standing here. Before the Powley case we were
ashamed to show ourselves. After the case, it
was like a coming out for us. It was a time for
us to be proud of our culture.”
– Art Bennett, Region 4 Captain of the Hunt
“The Powley case pushed the rights agenda
for Métis harvesting. I am happy for the next
generations to have access to these rights. And
I am thankful to the MNO for the hard work
that they do to continue Riel’s vision by getting
us to where we are today.”
– Theresa Stenlund, PCMNO Councillor Region 1
“This is a time to honour Riel and a time
to think about what I have done for the
betterment of Métis people this year. The
Powley case took a long time and it is so
historically important. To me, Powley is a
stepping stone in our recognition as a people
of Canada. We have always been here, and
now after the Powley decision, on Riel Day
we come out and publically say I am Métis!
Powley gave us the out, pride and insurance to
share who we are.”
– France Picotte, MNO Chair
“Nice to come down, I have been coming
to the Queen’s Park ceremony since 2008.
The Powley decision took a long-time. It is
great to now see after 10 years the progress
it has made; we never thought that it would
have such an impact at the time. You can see
the difference at Riel Day; people are even
recognizing our symbols. Today is a day for us
to reflect upon what Riel and the Powley case
has done for the Métis people. Today is a day
to unite and show our pride.”
– Andre Bossé
“Today is really special with the 20th
anniversary of the MNO and the 10th
anniversary of the Powley decision. It is not
only a time to reflect and recognize, but to
educate and share who we are with the rest of
the world. I was even asked in the hotel lobby
about my sash.”
– PCMNO Senator Verna Brunelle
“I have been coming to the ceremony for 10
years. It is a reaffirmation of our commitment
to Louis Riel and ourselves. He has fulfilled
what he wanted for the Métis Nation.”
– Anita Tucker, PCMNO Councillor Region 8
“Riel was only 41 when he left this earth but
he had accomplished so much in that time.
Imagine what else he could have accomplished
if he walked the earth just a bit longer. Today
is a day to be somber, reflect and a day to be
proud.”
– Sharon McBride, MNO Vice-chair
“Today is a day to honour a man that did not
deserve the means which he got. We shouldn’t
have to fight as hard as we do for the rights we
have always deserved. Riel day was a minority
in the past but we can see the progress that has
been made.”
– Tom Thompson Jr., PCMNO Councillor Region 6
“I can’t wait for there to be a statue at Queen’s
Park that honours and represents Louis Riel. I
am looking forward to that day.”
– Cam Burgess, PCMNO Councillor Region 2
“I have been here every year and travel from
Midland. This is our time to join as a family
come out of the closet and show who we are.
Before the Powley decision, we never used to
say we were Métis, we had to hide and now we
are people.”
– Senator Audrey Vallee
“This is my first time attending the ceremony
at Queen’s park. I am very excited and
honoured to be here. I feel such pride to see the
flag rise and share my history with the world.
It feels like a big family reunion.”
– Deidre Thompson, MNO High Land Waters Métis Council Acting President
“It always strikes me that Louis Riel is the
only leader in Canada that we memorialize
every year. Riel was always a great leader and
an honourable man.”
– Jean Teillet, Métis lawyer & great grand-niece of Riel
“He accomplished in his death what he
couldn’t do in his life – uniting the Métis
people and that is what we are doing here
today.”
– Executive Senator Reta Gordon
17
Métis Voyageur
“Blood” and the Métis connection
An evening with award winning author Lawrence Hill
By: Alysha Akoodie, MNO Communications Assistant
O
ne of the great things
that happened during
this year’s Louis Riel Day
events was a reading by Lawrence
Hill from his new book Blood: The
Stuff of Life, which was the basis
for this year’s Massey Lectures. The
reading was part of the Métis Nation
of Ontario (MNO) and Law Society
of Upper Canada event held on November 15.
occupied with what degree of mingling
we have of European and Indian blood?
No matter how little we have of one the
other, do not both gratitude and filial love
require us to make a point of saying, “We
are Métis”.”
Perhaps it is not surprising that
these lines also appear in the opening of the MNO Statement of Prime
Purpose.
When asked if he could elaborate
Much of Hill’s writings touches on on this, Hill stated, “Louis Riel’s comissues of identity, Blood being no dif- ments helped crystalize and cement
ferent. The book offers a “provocative the point I was already making. Even
examination of the scientific and social Riel said there is a fixation on blood
history of blood, and on the ways that quantity...He said we are Métis and
we should forget about the numbers.”
it unites and divides us today.”
Hill furthers this argument by usBroken down into five chapters,
Blood draws on the topics of biology, ing the Powley case as an example.
history, religion, culture, nationality, He writes that the Powley case illustrated “…how thoroughly we have
sports, arts and more.
When learning about Hill’s speak- lost sight of Louis Riel’s reminder that
ing engagement, I found myself asking there is no need to preoccupy ourwhat the connection is between Hill’s selves with degrees of blood mixing,
book and the MNO. I rushed out to and how profoundly the connection
purchase a copy of the book and as I between blood quantum and Métis
read through the pages, the connec- identity has lodged itself in the coltion became more and more apparent. lective consciousness of Canadians.”
What interested Hill in this case
By chapter three I had found it! Blood
is not only relevant to Métis people was how forcefully the Ontario govbut also specifically to Louis Riel Day ernment raised arguments about
and the 10th anniversary of the Pow- blood quantum in its efforts to see
ley decision. I was fortunate to have the Powleys convicted.
“The Ontario Ministry argued in
been given the opportunity to discuss
court that they [Steve and Roddy PowBlood with Hill at the event.
In chapter three, “Comes By it ley] were guilty [for hunting without
Honestly: Blood and Belonging”, Hill a license] because they are not Métis,”
explores the connection between he explained. “Why are they not Méblood, race and identity. He explains tis? Because Steve Powley was 1/64
that blood has almost become inter- Aboriginal descent…they were fixated
changeable with race due to the long on quantifying the blood.”
In the end the Supreme Court of
history of formal government policies
linking the two together. He discusses Canada rejected this way of thinking
how fixation on blood and the notion and focused on Métis as distinctive
peoples with their own cusof blood purity has led
toms and cultural practices.
to horrific events such
This decision was a first of
as the Holocaust, South
its kind.
Africa’s apartheid and
It seems
After the many years of
the Sixties Scoop.
to me that
litigation, in the end the
Throughout this
Powley case not only ruled
chapter, Hill argues the most
in the favour of Métis but
that race, culture and
meaningful
it also illustrated progress
identity should not
be determined by this way to define in altering the blood quanway of thinking. Hill
fixation on blood. Dura people is by tum
explained how the historic
ing our discussion Hill
Powley case was not only
stated, “I believe that the notions
extremely significant to
identity and belonging
of group
Métis people, but to all Caare things that are denadians.
fined by your personal acceptance,
He writes, “I would arand group practices…
cultural
gue that the blood quantum
It seems to me that the
most meaningful way to practices and argument, as raised in the
courts during the
define a people is by the
self-identity.” lower
Powley case, reflects endurnotions of group acceping perceptions – within
tance, cultural practices — Lawrence Hill
Aboriginal cultures, and in
and self-identity.”
the broader Canadian comHill illustrates this
argument by focusing on Métis peo- munity – about the fundamental link
ple. With assistance from Métis law- between racial identity and blood.”
This fundamental link is still very
yer Jean Teillet, he shined light on the
Powley case and the Daniels case to much a reality but the Powley case was
further his argument. Turns out, this a stepping stone in the right direction.
More recently, this progress was
was the same argument Riel made in
his last memoir before being executed. illustrated in the Daniels case. In this
case, the Federal Court of Canada did
Quoting Riel, Hill writes:
“…we honour our mothers as well not fixate on blood when declaring
as our fathers. Why should we be so pre- that Métis and “non-status” Indians
are considered “Indians” under Section
91(24) of the 1867 Constitution Act. This
decision moved away from the blood/racial
purity concepts of the past and focused on
cultural identity.
Although the court wrongly defined
Métis people by grouping them with all Aboriginal peoples, Hill writes that it “nudged
Canada in the right direction by casting
aside “degrees of blood purity” as a means
of defining human beings.”
He also writes that, “Métis people are
distinct from other Canadians. This is not
because they are more “mixed” than others
in the country, but because they developed
their own unique blend of people, language, culture, music, arts, lifestyles, and
kinship connection.”
Before ending the interview Hill stated
“I hope that watching me juggle my kind of
notions of blood and identity [he is mixed
with black and white ancestry] will be of
interest to Métis people who are also probably required to think about that every day
of the week, even if they don’t want to.”
This issue of identity is faced by many
Canadians and is well solidified throughout Hill’s book. He concluded the reading
by reciting from chapter three, asking the
audience, “In this day and age, who among
us is not all mixed up?”.
Author Lawrence Hill reading from his book Blood: The Stuff
of Life during the MNO/Law Society of Upper Canada event
where he also autographed copies of the book.
About Lawrence Hill
Lawrence Hill is the son of American immigrants — a black
father and a white mother — who came to Canada the day after
they married in 1953 in Washington, D.C. Growing up in the
predominantly white suburb of Don Mills, Ontario in the sixties,
Hill was greatly influenced by his parents’ work in the human
rights movement. Much of Hill’s writing touches on issues of
identity and belonging. Hill is the author of nine books. His
2007 novel The Book of Negroes (also published as Someone
Knows My Name and Aminata) won the Rogers Writers’ Trust
Fiction Prize, the Commonwealth Writers Prize for Best Book
and both CBC Canada Reads and Radio Canada’s Combat des
livres. A television mini-series based on the novel is currently
in production. In fall 2013, Hill gave the CBC Massey Lectures.
Blood: The Stuff of Life, which aired on CBC Radio.
18
Métis Voyageur
Community Council Riel Day photos
E
very year Louis Riel Day ceremonies are held to
remember what Riel sacrificed in the defense of
Métis rights and the Métis Way of Life. Riel Day has
become a time to not only remember the sacrifice but to
rejoice and reflect upon all things Métis.
Along with the provincial
ceremony held at Queen’s Park,
MNO chartered community
councils organized Louis Riel
events in their communities
01
across the province. Flag raising
ceremonies were held at City
Halls in Thunder Bay, Welland,
St. Catharines, Guelph, Cochrane,
Dryden, North Bay and Toronto to
name a few. Riel Day celebrations
and feasts were also held by
several community councils, and
one was even hosted by the MNO
Ottawa Region Métis Council
at the Ottawa Police Service
headquarters. The event included
a flag presentation and jigging with
Chief of Police Charles Bordeleau.
The MNO Northwest Métis
Council held a dinner event which
was followed by dancing. Nearly
120 people attended the event.
The MNO Grand River Métis
Council held a flag raising ceremony
at Guelph City hall which also featured the fiddling of Rajan Anderson
and champion jigger Modeste McKenzie. City of Guelph Councillor
Karly Wettstein was in attendance
and was presented with a sash by
MNO Senator Carol Levis.
The MNO Thunder Bay Métis
Council held a flag raising ceremo-
02
03
01: MNO Credit River Métis Council Riel Day
celebration included a great buffet of food.
02: MNO Northwest Métis Council Riel Day flag
rising at Dryden City Hall which was followed by a
reception.
03: MNO Northwest Métis Council Riel Day flag
raising ceremony.
04
04: MNO Northern Lights Métis Council Riel Day flag
raising ceremony.
05: MNO Thunder Bay Métis Council Riel Day
flag raising ceremony. Many city officials were in
attendance.
05
06: Rochelle Ethier and Darlene Lent during the
MNO Credit River Métis Council Riel Day celebration.
07: MNO Grand River Métis Council Louis Riel Day
flag raising ceremony at Guelph City Hall.
08: MNO citizens and staff members at a Louis Riel
Day event in Sudbury.
06
09: As they did over the past four years,
representatives from the MNO Niagara Region Métis
Council met with local officials to raise the Métis flag
in honour of Louis Riel Day at Welland City Hall.
07
10: MNO Bancroft office staff at the Louis Riel
harvest dinner celebration.
11: MNO Northern Lights Métis Council Riel Day flag
raising ceremony.
12: Chief of Police Charles Bordeleau, MNO staff
member Jo MacQuarrie, MNO Ottawa Region
Métis Council President Chris Lavigne and an expert
08
10
ny which many public officials attended. Notable attendees included:
City Councillor Ken Boshcoff, City
of Thunder Bay Aboriginal Liason
Ann Magiskan, City of Thunder
Bay Police John Walmark and Larry
Baxter.
Here are some photos from these
events. Additional council Riel Day
event details are featured on pages
20 and 21.
jigger celebrating at the Ottawa Police Service
headquarters.
11
09
12
19
Métis Voyageur
Commemorating the
landmark Powley case
O
n September 19, 2003, after 10 years
of litigation, the Supreme Court of
Canada, in an unanimous judgement,
declared that Steve and Roddy Powley as members of the Sault Ste. Marie Métis community
had the Métis right to harvest and that this right
is protected under section 35 of The Constitution
Act, 1982. Because the Powleys had the courage
of their convictions, Métis rights were recognized
and affirmed by the Supreme Court for the first
time.
As 2013 marks the 10th anniversary of the
historic Powley case, the Métis Nation of Ontario
(MNO) held two events coinciding with the annual provincial Louis Riel Day commemorations
to recognize the ongoing significance of the Powley case to the Métis Nation.
The first event was public legal education
equality event co-sponsored by the MNO and
the Law Society of Upper Canada. Each year
the MNO holds an event with the Law Society
that focuses on developments in Métis law in
Canada. Due to the anniversary of the Powley
case, this year’s event was entitled “Ten years
after R. v. Powley: looking forward and looking
back.” Well over 100 lawyers, MNO citizens and
other interested individuals filled a ballroom at
the Hilton Toronto Hotel to hear Métis lawyers
Jean Teillet and Jason Madden as well as MNO
President Gary Lipinski speak about the Powley
case and its ongoing legacy.
Appropriately, the opening prayer for the
event was said by Senator Brenda Powley, the wife
of the late Steve Powley. The event was chaired
by Métis lawyer Margaret Froh, who is also the
MNO Director of Strategic Policy, Planning and
Compliance. Prior to the main speakers, Susan
Hare, a Bencher with the Law Society brought
greetings and presented MNO President with
a framed letter congratulating the MNO on its
20th anniversary. In thanking the Law Society,
President Lipinski credited the Law Society with
helping insure the voice of the Métis was heard.
President Lipinski spoke of the early years of the
MNO when it was difficult to get any kind of official recognition of Métis rights and how the Law
Society had been one of the first organizations to
provide the MNO with a forum for Métis rights.
Jean Teillet, who served as the Powley’s lawyer
during their historic case, was the first speaker.
She provided an extensive history lesson going back to the very emergence of Métis as a
distinct people and showed the continuous line
of development from there to the Powley case.
She outlined how the Métis had developed as
an Aboriginal people with rights that they had
asserted and that have never been extinguished.
She spoke about the dark period when the Métis
became the forgotten people and their eventual
re-emergence as they again began to assert their
rights after the Second World War. Teillet left
off by saying that while the Powley case and
other victories have been important there was
still much business left unfinished.
It was to this unfinished business that President Lipinski addressed when he spoke after
Teillet. He reported that the MNO continues to
grow stronger with successful programs that provide opportunities and services to Métis people
across Ontario and in such areas as healing and
wellness, education and training, housing as well
as cultural activities. The MNO has also seen
success in its efforts to make itself self-sufficient
with its recent economic self-sufficiency law and
the green energy FIT projects. Despite these successes, however, he stated that “the struggles we
have today are still the struggles that Riel had
when he was fighting
to protect our way-oflife as a distinct people.” As an example of
the ongoing struggle
Métis face to have
their rights and contributions recognized.
President Lipinski
cited the Daniels case.
“How can it be,” he
asked, “that the Métis
are the only Aboriginal group that the
federal government
doesn’t have responsibility for? Why is
it that we can’t begin
negotiation now? It is
absurdity in the extreme that we must go
through this dance.”
While the tendency of
government to sometimes drag everything
through court is discouraging, President Lipinski concluded saying, “The hope we always have
is that good government will negotiate rather
than litigate and rather than force social unrest
and taking things to the extreme. That is the
hope we all have.”
Following President Lipinski, Jason Madden’s
presentation looked forward to upcoming and
ongoing court decisions that will impact Métis
rights in the future. The key cases will include
the Daniels case which will likely determine
whether the federal government has jurisdiction for Métis and if Métis enjoy the same rights
as “Indians” under the Canadian constitution.
Another case with important implications is the
Hirsekorn case from Alberta that could establish
Métis mobility rights and thus expand the area
where Métis people can harvest. Madden also
indicated that even though the recent Manitoba
Metis Federation (MMF) v. Canada was a clear
victory for Métis rights, how this court case will
(Top) Senator Brenda Powley speaking during the Powley Tribute dinner. (Bottom) The Métis
play out is still largely unknown although he Fiddler Quartet had everyone’s toes tapping during the Powley Tribute dinner.
expects to be using the case to support other
President Lipinski also explained that besides Senator Powley praised Teillet’s handling of the
Métis rights litigation well into the future.
After an afternoon of intense and detailed being an important Métis rights case, the Powley case and remembered the excitement when the
legal discussions, the recognition of the Powley case was crucial in the development of the MNO. Powley decision finally came down from the
case continued into the evening but at a more “The Powley case,” he said, “was the glue that Supreme Court. She described how the court
personal level. A tribute dinner was held to hon- helped bring the MNO together. People need room was full; how even the lawn outside the
our the Powley family and thank them for their a cause; they need something to stand behind. Supreme Court was full and how they made a
sacrifices and courage. Members of the Powley Without question, the MNO, all of its citizens, its lot of noise. “I guess Jean that we got away with
family were present including Steve Powley’s communities, put their full support behind Steve a lot that day,” she laughed.
“One thing that I have to say,” Senator Powley
son Roddy and his wife Senator Brenda Powley. and Roddy and this crystalized to bring the MNO
commented, “is that I have made beautiful friends
The evening was emceed by MNO Chair France together for that 10 year struggle.”
After President Lipinski expressed the grate- and it [the MNO] is such a big family. If I had a
Picotte and Senator Verna Brunelle provided
fulness of the entire Nation to the Powleys, Sena- chance, I would do it all again!”
blessings at the beginning of the event.
“You don’t do something like this by yourThe evening saw the signing of an extension tor Brenda Powley spoke about the impact of the
of the MNO/Ontario Framework Agreement but Powley case on her family. She explained that self,” she added, “we had support right across the
the main focus was on the Powley case and the Steve Powley had been a very private man, who province.” Senator Powley related that towards
Powley family (see page 3 for the complete story). did not like to even be photographed and that the end of the case, as Steve Powley was suffering
During supper, the crowd of over 100 people it was a huge adjustment for him to adapt to the from a severe illness he asked: “What was my
including MNO citizens, dignitaries and other media glare that had accompanied the Powley purpose in life? with all his illnesses; that [the
invited guests enjoyed Métis fiddling from Alicia case. She described the fear of being taken to case] was his purpose in life – he was determined
court and the resulting confiscation of their meat to see it through [and once the case was won] his
Bloor with her brother Liam on guitar.
President Lipinski remembered fondly being by the Ministry of Natural Resources and the hurt job was done – he did it.”
The evening concluded with the Métis Fiddler
invited to dinner at the Powley home while on caused by false accusations such as that they had
one of his many journeys that took him through been hunting at night. She thanked her children Quartet providing one of their epic toe tapping
Sault Ste. Marie where the Powleys live. “The for their support during this difficult time. “They performances followed by the premiere of the
final version of Métis Nation of Ontario 1993-2013,
Powleys are to use the old-fashioned phrase,” he were there at all times,” she said.
Senator Powley did not dwell on the negatives the documentary film about the history of the
stated “salt of the earth. On behalf of all MNO
citizens I want to thank you for the burden that though. She described it as “the luckiest day MNO produced to celebrate the 20th anniversary
your whole family carried and your commitment of our life is when Tony [former MNO Presi- of the MNO.
dent Tony Belcourt] brought Jean [Teillet] over.”
and sacrifice throughout the whole ordeal.”
20
Métis Voyageur
MNO Credit River
Métis Council
Louis Riel Day
gathering
Celebrating the recognition of
Métis culture, identity and history
By: Richard Cuddy, President of the MNO Credit River Métis Council
(Left to right) City of Brampton Regional Councillor Jon Sanderson and MNO Credit River Métis
Council members Councillor Joyce Tolles, President Richard Cuddy and MNO Senator Ray Bergie
during the Riel Day gathering in Brampton.
On November 17, the Métis Nation of ing and Wellness staff were also present.
A highlight of the event was Jim Tolles’,
Ontario (MNO) Credit River Métis Council
hosted a Louis Riel celebration and gather- a traditional knowledge specialist, display of
Métis culture, artifacts and inforing in Brampton. MNO citizens
mation that spanned more than
from neighbouring MNO Hamil50 feet; right across the back of
ton-Wentworth and MNO Grand
Gatherings
the hall!
River Métis Councils also attended
Entertainment included perbringing the total number of guest like these are
formances by the drumming ento over 150!
vital to our
semble, the Group Orange Ladies
Senator Ray Bergie provided
& Good Hearted Women’s Singthe opening prayer and MNO community’s
ers, who took the stage for several
Credit River Métis Council Presistability,
powerful, traditional songs, Métis
dent Richard Cuddy provided
Fiddler’s Duo, Kim and Rajan Anwelcoming remarks. President sustainability
champion jigger Modeste
Cuddy also spoke about the sigand growth.” derson,
McKenzie, and the Olivine Baisnificance of 2013 and the dual anquet Métis Dancers.
niversaries of the MNO and the — Richard Cuddy
A door prize, 50/50 draw and
Powley decision.
During the event, MNO Lands, Resources a silent auction were conducted by Counciland Consultations Branch staff presented a lors Maheu, Neville, T. Tolles, Derocher and
“Métis 101” information session. MNO Heal- Senator Bergie.
Guests were treated to a buffet feast consisting of salad, beans, fish soup, scalloped
potatoes, vegetables, moose, venison and so
much more. Special thanks to the contributions provided by our Harvesters Joe Paquette,
President of the MNO Veterans’ Council and
Jim Tolles; also to Chef Mike Tenue for the
preparation of the venison hind quarter.
The Council would like to thank their
volunteers for organizing a successful event;
Wendy Elliott, Janice Graham, Helen Barron,
Don Lent, Darlene Lent, Mike Kerr, Jacqueline
Warll, Christina Tolles, Ryan Maheu, Angela
Cuddy, Samantha Cuddy, Ms. Karen Tolles,
Bertha Tolles and Pamela Philips, Jean-Marc
Maheu, David Neville, Joyce Tolles, Karen
Derocher and Taliltha Tolles. Councillor Joyce
Tolles was recognized for her hard work, efforts and dedication she exhibited as the lead
for the gathering.
Special guests included representatives
from Peel Diversity and Inclusion Charter
Phase II Combating Racism; Conservation Halton; Centre Ontarien de Prévention des Agressions (COPA); Mississauga Halton and Central
West LHINs, Dufferin Peel District Catholic
School and Peel District School Boards; Peel
Children’s Aid Society; the Region of Halton
and Councillor John Sanderson, Regional
Councillor for Wards 3 and 4 in the City of
Brampton.
“Gatherings like these are vital to our community’s stability, sustainability and growth,”
stated President Cuddy. “The Council and
MNO staff use these opportunities to deliver
important information and to receive instant
feedback. All in an afternoon surrounded by
family, friends and colleagues; with the chance
to jig and enjoy a feast of traditional Métis
foods while being serenaded by traditional
Métis music.”
Dryden
Riel Day
Celebration
Submitted by: Mandy Montgomery,
MNO Employment Developer
MNO Niagara Region Métis Council during the Louis Riel Day flag raising ceremony at Welland City Hall.
New reason to remember Riel Day
Recent Supreme Court ruling vindicates Métis leader.
By: Steve Henschel (Niagara This Week – Welland)
WELLAND — As the Métis flag
was raised in front of city hall there
was a special reason to remember this
year.
As they did over the past four
years, representatives from the Métis
Nation of Ontario (MNO) Niagara
Region Métis Council met with Mayor
Barry Sharpe and city representatives
to raise the flag in honour of Louis
Riel Day. The small crowd gathered
last Friday, one day ahead of the actual Nov. 16 date of Riel’s execution
as the leader of the Métis.
“The fight he began for the Métis
people, we are celebrating that,” said
MNO Niagara Region Métis Council
President Derrick Pont.
“He stood up,” said Pont, explain-
ing the Métis leader and his provisional government were influential
in the establishment of Manitoba as
a province, participating in negotiations with the Canadian government
in 1870. Those negotiations were
supposed to yield dedicated lands
for the Métis.
“The government at the time started sending surveyors out and giving
away that land,” said Pont. “He (Riel)
stood up.”
Riel would lead the Métis in open
rebellion and eventually be executed
for his involvement.
“He ended up losing his life to that
cause,” said Pont.
Now, 128 years later, vindication
has finally come.
Pont explained this year the Supreme Court finally made a ruling
on the MMF v. Canada case. In a 6-2
vote the court found that “the Federal
Crown failed to implement the land
grant provision set out in s.31 of the
Manitoba Act, 1870 in accordance
with the honour of the Crown.”
Pont explains the ruling makes
this year’s Riel Day particularly special
as it shows the promise he fought for
was indeed ignored and abused by
the Canadian government of the day.
“What he was fighting for has
been finally justified by the courts,”
said Pont.
“The Métis people are not to be
forgotten anymore.”
T
he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Dryden office held
a Louis Riel Day Celebration on Friday, November 15.
A Métis flag raising took place at Dryden City Hall
where members of the MNO Northwest Métis Council, MNO
staff and supporters of the community attended. The Dryden
Mayor assisted with the raising of the flag.
This was followed by a reception at the MNO office where
everyone enjoyed snacks and refreshments.
A feast hosted by MNO staff proved to be a huge success with
115 community members attending. Entertainment was provided
by “Boarder Line” who performed a number of dances including
square dances and jigs.
Louis Riel Day flag raising ceremony at Dryden City Hall.
21
Métis Voyageur
North Bay Riel Day
flag raising ceremony
Submitted by: Marc Laurin, President of the MNO North Bay Métis Council
T
he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) North Bay
Métis Council held a Louis Riel day flag raising
event at the North Bay City Hall. The Council was
very honoured by the presence of the North Bay Mayor Al
McDonald and Nipissing Member of Provincial Parliament
Victor Fideli. Mayor McDonald read the Louis Riel Day
proclamation and another highlight was a reading about
the life of Louis Riel by Denis Tremblay, a councillor for
the MNO North Bay Métis Council.
City of Toronto
honours Métis
people at flag
raising for
Louis Riel Day
Original article published by the City of Toronto.
Dignitaries, MNO North Bay Métis Council members and MNO staff watch the Métis flag rise at North Bay City
Hall in honour of Louis Riel Day.
MNO Niagara
Region celebrates
fifth year of Riel
Day flag raising
ceremony
At a ceremony and flag Christine Skura also spoke.
“Louis Riel Day is an imraising on November 15, the
City of Toronto honoured the portant reminder of the concontributions of Louis Riel and tribution of Riel to the Métis
the Métis people to the devel- people and to the development of Canada,” said Counopment of Canada.
Métis Nation of Ontario cillor Layton. “This year also
marks the 10th
(MNO) Senaanniversary of the
tor Joseph Piohistoric Supreme
tras provided the
Court decision
opening blessthat ensured Métis
ing at the event.
rights in Ontario
Councillor Mike
are protected unLayton (Ward 19
der the ConstituTr i n i t y - S p a d i tion. There is still
na), Chair of the
work to be done
Aboriginal Afto achieve Riel’s
fairs Committee,
vision. The City
brought greetof Toronto continings and read the
ues to build strong
proclamation, folworking relationlowed by remarks
— Mike Layton
ships with Aborigfrom MNO Chair
inal communities
France Picotte.
and partnerships
MNO Toronto Métis Council President Robert for the development of sucBird and youth representative cessful programs and policies.”
There is
still work
to be done
to achieve
Riel’s
vision.”
Submitted by: Glen Lipinski,
MNO Community Relations Coordinator
Katelyne Stenlund at the grave of Louis Riel.
The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Niagara Region
Métis Council held a beautiful flag raising ceremony in
honour of Louis Riel Day at St. Catharines City Hall on
November 15.
This was the Council’s fifth year raising the Métis flag
in honour of Louis Riel Day in St. Catharines. Among
MNO council members and staff were St. Catharines
Mayor Brian McMullen, Member of Parliament Rick Dykstra and Member of Provincial Parliament Jim Bradley.
Métis youth visits
historic grave of
Louis Riel
Submitted by: Theresa Stenlund,
PCMNO Region 1 Councillor
On a recent family trip to Winnipeg, Katelyne Stenlund, the daughter of Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) Region 1 Councillor
Theresa Stenlund, had the opportunity to visit the St.
Boniface Roman Catholic Cathedral Cemetery. This
cemetery is the final resting of Louis Riel and while
there Katelyne had her picture taken with the grave of
the great Métis leader.
MNO Niagara Region Métis Council Louis Riel Day
flag raising ceremony at St. Catharines City Hall. (Left
to right): MP Rick Dykstra; MNO Community Relations
Coordinator Glen Lipinski; Council Woman’s Rep
Barbaranne Wright; Council President Derrick Pont;
Mayor of St. Catharines Brian McMullen; Council
Senator Garry Laframoise; Fritz Steele; MPP Jim
Bradley; and Harry Wright.
Riel Day flag raising ceremony at Toronto City Hall. (Left
to right) MNO Toronto Métis Council President Robert Bird,
City of Toronto Councillor Mike Layton, MNO Senator Joseph
Piotras and MNO Chair France Picotte.
22
Métis Voyageur
Opportunities
MNO Employment and
Contracting Community Gathering
Submitted by: James Wagar,
MNO Manager of Natural Resources and Consultations
T
he Métis Nation of
Ontario (MNO) in
conjunction with Niagara Region Wind Corporation and Union Gas hosted
the MNO Employment and
Contracting Community
Gathering on October 29 in
St. Catherines.
MNO citizens from Region
9 and Region 8 who attended
had the opportunity to spend
time with the community,
speak with a number of universities and seek out new
employment opportunities
with a variety of companies.
Companies providing
employment opportunities
included Union Gas, Niagara
Region Wind Corporation,
Enercon, TSP Towers Canada, PCL, AECON Utilities and
Link-Line.
The event included
speeches from MNO Region
9 Youth Representative Alex
Young and PCMNO Region
9 Councillor Peter Rivers as
well as representatives from
Union Gas and the Niagara
Region Wind Corporation. ∞
MNO citizens and organization representatives at the MNO Employment and Contracting Community Gathering.
(Left to right) John Bonin, Union Gas; Peter Rivers, MNO Region 9 PCMNO Councillor; Jo Anne Young, President of the
MNO Hamilton-Wentworth Métis Council; Alex Young, MNO Region 9 Youth; Cora Bunn, President of MNO Grand River
Community Métis Council; Richard Cuddy, President of MNO Credit River Métis Council; and Derrick Pont, President of
MNO Niagara Region Métis Council.
Councils participate in
MNO Governance and
B
Finance Training
Region 9 Consultation
Committee tours Dawn
Compressor Plant
Submitted by: James Wager, MNO Manager of
Natural Resources and Consultations
uilding relationships with proponents requires
ongoing work and learning about the companies that the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO)
partners with. Part of this important work is made
possible by MNO consultation committees. The Regional Consultation Committees work in collaboration with MNO staff to ensure inclusive, transparent
and meaningful Métis engagement with proponents
across the province.
On October 9, Union Gas provided the MNO
Region 9 Consultation Committee, invited community council members and MNO staff with a tour of
the Dawn Compressor Plant. This tour is part of the
ongoing relationship building between the MNO and
Union Gas throughout the province.
The plant is Canada’s largest natural formation
natural gas storage facility. The centre holds 155 billion cubic feet of natural gas in 23 reservoirs - enough
to heat about 1.9 million homes for an entire year.
The Committee members enjoyed the tour which
was very informative and provided greater insight into
the work of Union Gas. ∞
MNO Community Relations
Coordinator
T
he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Niagara
Region Métis Council
and MNO Oshawa and Durham
Region Métis Council recently
both participated in the MNO’s
two-day Governance and Finance Training.
Training was held from
October 19-20 for the MNO
Niagara Region Métis Council
and from November 2-3 for the
MNO Oshawa and Durham Region Métis Council.
Facilitated by Glen Lipinski,
MNO Consultation and Community Relations Coordinator
and Beth Honsberger, MNO
Community Relations Coordinator, the two-day training focused on governance and began
with a “Métis 101”. Additional
topics covered included: visioning, challenges, opportunities
and planning for Councils.
Lipinski and Honsberger also
concentrated on finance and the
New Relationship Fund. They
delivered sessions focusing on
policies, procedures, aspects of
budgeting and general reporting. ∞
Region 9 Consultation Committee members,
community council members and MNO staff during the
tour of the Dawn Compressor Plant. (Left to right) Jon
(top) MNO Niagara Region Métis Council Governance and Finance Training. (Left to right) Garry
Laframboise, Giselle Legiehn, Amanda Pont-Shanks, Derrick Pont, Barbara-Anne Wright, Reg
Bernier and Leah Brown.Cuddy, President of MNO Credit River Métis Council; and Derrick Pont,
President of MNO Niagara Region Métis Council. (Bottom) Participants of the MNO Oshawa and
Durham Region Métis Council Governance and Finance Training. (Left to right) Front row: Janet
Huttmann, Kristin Randall and Frances Harris. Centre row: Cecile Wagar and Auriele Diotte. Back
Row: Joe McCaveney, Jeanette Ireland, Kevin Henry, André Bossé, Ted McNally and Michael
Diotte.
Rochon, President of MNO Windsor-Essex Métis Council;
MNO Windsor-Essex Métis Councillor Wilfred Rochon;
John Bonin (Union Gas); MNO Niagara Region Métis
Council Women’s Rep. Barbaranne Wright; MNO Grand
River Métis Council Senator Carol Levis; MNO Grand
River Métis Council President Cora Bunn; MNO HamiltonWentworth Métis Council President Joanne Young;
George Fleury; MNO Niagara Region Métis Council
President Derrick Pont; and James Wagar.
23
Métis Voyageur
Community
Métis capote coat workshop
By: Cora Bunn, President of the MNO Grand River Métis Council
T
Participants of the capote coat workshop. (Left to right) Jennifer Parkinson, PCMNO Vice-chair Sharon McBride,
Barbaranne Wright, Fritz Steele, Carol Levis, Leslie Muma, Tobias Clarke, Cora Bunn, Margaret Donahue and
Darlene Lent.
he Métis Nation of Ontario
(MNO) Grand River Métis
Council held a capote coat
workshop earlier this month.
Members from the MNO Credit
River Métis Council, HamiltonWentworth Métis Council, Niagara Region Métis Council and the
Ottawa Regional Métis Council
participated in the fun filled event.
Provisional Council of the MNO
(PCMNO) Vice-chair, Sharon Mc-
Bride was also in attendance.
A capote is a historical Métis
dress item often made from a woolen Hudson’s Bay Company blanket.
The coats are lightweight but warm
and extend to the knees. The capote
coat has become an original and
unique work of art as they are commonly decorated with beadwork,
embroidery, sashes, fringes and
quillwork. ∞
Learning to harvest
MNO Georgian Bay Métis youth group
Submitted by: Larry Ferris,
MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council Chairperson
F
rom October 12-13, six
members from the Métis Nation of Ontario
(MNO) Georgian Bay Métis
Council youth group participated in the First Hunting/
Firearms Safety Course. All six
participants passed and seven
more also took the course from
October 19-20.
As part of the training, MNO
Captain of the Hunt for Region
Seven Greg Garratt provided
the youth with an overview of
the MNO Harvesting Policy
and the rights and obligations
associated with the policy.
The MNO Georgian Bay
Métis Council would like to
thank the Cultural Connections for Aboriginal Youth for
providing a grant to fund this
course.
Perhaps someday these
young people may even join
the ranks of the MNO Harvesters.
On another evening, the
youth group enjoyed an evening of sausage making.
Youth made sausages from
venison provided by the Garratt and moose and some venison provided by Harvester
Larry Ferris.
They grinded up the moose
meat and mixed the meat with
pork fat and then put it into the
sausage casings. All the youth
and some of the parents participated in the process.
Thanks to Garratt for organizing all the materials and
Janice Ferris for providing the
special recipe.
Everyone enjoyed samples
and where able to take some
sausages home. Some sausages
were given to Métis elder Gerry
Dumont. ∞
Members of the MNO Georgian
Bay Métis Council youth group who
participated in the First Hunting/
Fire Arms Safety course.
MNO Georgian Bay Métis
Council youth group during
sausage making workshop.
Harvesting with the MNO
Temiskaming Métis Council
Submitted by: Liliane Ethier, President of the MNO Temiskaming Métis Council
T
MP Malcom Allen, MNO Niagara Region Métis Council President Derrick
Pont and MPP Cindy Forster at the annual potluck harvest dinner.
Celebrating the
harvest
(MNO) Temiskaming Métis
Council has been very active
in their community. Some recent
activities include a harvest gathering and a Thanksgiving celebration.
On September 21, the MNO
Temiskaming Métis Council hosted a harvest gathering in New
Liskeard. The gathering was a great
success with over 90 people attending. The highlight of the evening
was the fish fry which attracted 75
people.
During the celebration, the children demonstrated their talents in
face painting taught by Elizabeth
Morland. Métis entrepreneurs were
also invited to display information
about their services. This also pro-
vided the opportunity for the community to learn about Métis culture.
On October 15, Council members also attended the Ecole SteCroix Thanksgiving celebration.
The Council participated in the
celebration by donating canned
goods they collected at their previous harvest gathering. ∞
MNO Community Relations Coordinator
T
(MNO) Niagara Region
Métis Council held their
annual potluck harvest dinner on
September 29.
The event was a great success
with over 100 attendants and great
weather and of course, awesome
food. The day’s entertainment was
provided by the Niagara Old Tyme
Fiddlers.
Among notable attendants were
Member of Parliament for Welland
Malcolm Allen, Member of Provincial Parliament for Welland Cindy
Forster, and Mayor of Welland Barry Sharpe event would be memorable and fun for everyone. ∞
Activities during the MNO Temiskaming Métis Council harvest gathering included face painting and a food drive for
Thanksgiving potluck harvest dinner.
24
Métis Voyageur
Remembrance Day
November 11 2013
The following message was sent to all MNO citizens from
President Lipinski on november 11, 2013
W
e owe all veterans, including our
own Métis service men and women
a debt that can never be repaid. The
freedom we enjoy and its many benefits were dearly
paid for through their sacrifices and courage.
The Métis have a strong tradition of military
service. Our involvement in the defense of Canada
started in the War of 1812, and Métis have served
in both World Wars, the Korean Conflict, in Peacekeeping missions and most recently in Afghanistan.
On November 11, please take the time to remember our veterans who paid the ultimate price for our
freedom and thank those who are still with us. ∞
Gary Lipinski
Welland Remembrance Day parade
MNO Niagara Region Métis Council play significant role
Submitted by: Amanda Pont-Shanks, MNO Niagara Region Métis Council
O
n Sunday November 3,
members of the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO)
Niagara Region Métis Council participated in the Welland Legion
Remembrance Day parade at Chippewa Park.
Council members Amanda PontShanks, Chair Giselle Legiehn as
well as MNO citizen Marjorie Berry
proudly carried Métis flags in the
Legion Flag Party. Council members
Reg Bernier, Senator Garry Laframboise, President Derrick Pont, and
Métis youth Holden Shanks all
walked in the procession.
Senator Laframboise placed the
wreath in front of the cenotaph to
pay respect to past and present veterans who fought to keep Canada
free and safe.
Others in attendance included
Welland Mayor Barry Sharpe, members of the provincial government,
and a War of 1812 re-enactor, to
celebrate 200 years of peace between
Canada and the United States.
Members of the MNO Niagara
Region Métis Council also participated at the Remembrance Day ceremonies in Port Dalhousie and St.
Catharines.
Lest we forget. ∞
MNO Atikoken
and Area
Métis Council
remembers
Submitted by:
The MNO Atikokan and
Area Métis Council
T
(MNO) Atikoken and Area
Métis Council participated
in the Remembrance Day celebration at their local Royal Canadian
Legion.
Council Treasurer Sandra
Gauthier-Poelman, whose now
deceased father is a veteran, represented the Council and laid a
wreath in honour of all Métis Veterans. ∞
Photo credit: Brenda Pont
MNO Atitkoken and Area
Métis Council Treasurer Sandra
Gauthier-Poelman.
25
Métis Voyageur
2013 Remembrance Day ceremony
MNO remembers
our Métis veterans
E
very year the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) has participated in the national Remembrance
Day ceremonies in Ottawa by laying a wreath at the National Cenotaph on behalf of all MNO
citizens. Being part of these ceremonies is very important as Métis people have contributed to
the defense of Canada as far back as the War of 1812.
For more than a decade
MNO Senator Reta Gordon and
MNO Veteran Shaun Redmond
have performed this important
gesture on behalf of the MNO.
This has always been meaningful to them as Redmond is
a veteran himself and Senator Gordon’s family has deep
military ties; with her father
and five brothers all having
served in the Armed Forces.
Unfortunately this year Senator Gordon injured her foot
and could not lay the wreath
as it would require prolonged
standing and Shaun Redmond
was out of the country.
Standing in for Senator
Gordon and Redmond at this
year’s ceremony was veteran
and MNO Registrar Jane Brennan and her husband, Veteran
Steve Mackenzie. Registrar
Brennan has had a distinguished record of military service and is well known to
MNO veterans for her interest
and support of their projects.
“The Métis veterans I know
have served with dignity and
courage that are a source of
pride to their families,” explained Registrar Brennan.
“You can see this in the support
and respect given to them.”
“Remembrance Day is important because for veterans it
is a time to reflect, remember
and honour those that didn’t
return with them,” she continued. “For everyone else it
is not only the opportunity to
reflect, remember and honour
those that didn’t return but
also a chance to learn and un-
Attending the
Remembrance
Day ceremonies
and laying a
wreath is a
form of respect.
It is a way of
saying that we
haven’t forgotten
the service and
sacrifice.”
— Jane Brennan
derstand the history of what
occurred.”
Registrar Brennan, has done
many tours as a Peace Keeper,
comes from a military family.
Her father served in World War
II and in Korea and her son,
who is currently in the Armed
Forces, did a tour in Afghanistan. She has never missed a
Remembrance Day ceremony
and has always supported Métis veterans.
“Attending the Remembrance Day ceremonies and
laying a wreath is a form of
respect. It is a way of saying
that we haven’t forgotten the
service and sacrifice that goes
hand in hand with serving and
I feel honoured to be given this
privilege.” ∞
Did you know...
There are four animal figures, one on each corner of the war monument. Each act as spirit guides, with a special attribute: a wolf (family values), a buffalo (tenacity), an elk (wariness) and a bear (healing powers).
Métis veterans
lay wreath in
Owen Sound
Métis youth group
veterans awareness
night
M
T
Submitted by: Malcom Dixon
(Left to right) MNO North Bay Métis Council Senator
Marlene Greenwood and Veteran Doris Evans lay a wreath
in honour of North Bay Métis veterans during North Bay’s
Remembrance Day service.
Honouring North
Bay Métis veterans
étis veterans showed
their dedication at
Remembrance Day
ceremonies all over Ontario. Two
such veterans were Ernie Cotes
and Peter Gendron who despite
the cold and rain, placed wreaths
at the War Memorial monument
in Owen Sound.
The laying of a wreath is an
important gesture that honours
those who gave their lives for
freedom and is a sign of remembrance for the men and women
who have served, and continue to
serve for Canada during times of
war, conflict and peace. ∞
Submitted by: Linda Krause,
MNO Employment & Training Officer
T
his Remembrance Day,
(MNO) Senator Marlene Greenwood and Veteran
Doris Evans laid a wreath in
honour of North Bay Métis veterans during the Remembrance
Day service held at Memorial
Garden in North Bay.
Senator Greenwood and
Veteran Evans are long-time
active members of the MNO
North Bay Métis Council; Senator Greenwood in the position
of Senator and Veteran Evans
in the position of Secretary-
Treasurer.
Both Senator Greenwood
and Veteran Evans are respected representatives for Métis
veterans.
Coming from families with
military backgrounds, they understand the need to honour
each and every man and woman who has served. Last year
Veteran Evans was awarded the
Diamond Jubilee Medal which
was presented to her by North
Bay Member of Parliament Vic
Fedeli. ∞
Veteran and MNO Registrar Jane Brennan with her
husband Veteran Steve Mackenzie at the National
Aboriginal Veterans Monument.
Submitted by: Greg Garratt,
MNO Veterans’ Council Sgt-at-Arms
his Remembrance
Day, the Métis Nation of Ontario
(MNO) Georgian Bay Métis
Council youth group hosted
a veterans awareness and fun
evening. Métis youth enjoyed
crafts, colouring, trivia and
education about Métis veterans and how they helped
shape Canada.
Organized by MNO Veterans’ Council Sgt-at-Arms
Greg Garratt and MNO
Georgian Bay Métis Council
Chairperson Larry Ferris, the
evening included contests,
prizes and sandwiches provided by Bernice Paradis.
The MNO Georgian Bay
Métis Council has done
excellent work with youth
activities over the past few
years with much of the
thanks going to the many
volunteers on council and
their families. The Council
hopes to host a youth-veterans weekend in the new year
on an expanded level. ∞
MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council youth group veteran
Métis veterans Ernie Cotes and Peter Gendron at the War
Memorial monument in Owen Sound.
awareness night. (Left to right) Youth group members Skyler,
Jacob, Tamara and Dalton. Back row: Larry Ferris, MNO
Georgian Bay Métis Council Chairperson.
26
Métis Voyageur
Achievements
Métis youth presents
at Burt Award for First
Nations, Métis and
Inuit Literature Gala
Submitted by: Theresa Hendricks, MNO Payroll Officer
M
arissa Hendricks, daughter of Métis Nation of
Ontario (MNO) citizens
Theresa and Keith Hendricks, recently presented at CODE’s Burt
Award for First Nations, Métis and
Inuit Literature Inaugural Gala.
The event was held on October 2
at the Museum of Civilization in
Gatineau, Quebec.
The award was established by
CODE – a Canadian charitable organization that has been advancing literacy and learning in Canada
and around the world for over 50
years – in collaboration with William (Bill) Burt and the Literary
Prizes Foundation.
Part of a unique global readership initiative, CODE’s Burt Award
aims to recognizes excellence in
literary works for young adults by
Métis, First Nations and Inuit authors. It is a unique literary award
that strives to provide Aboriginal
youth across Canada with access
to culturally-relevant and engaging books.
Approached by CODE, Marissa provided a reading of Métis
Burt Award finalist, Catherine
Knutsson’s novel Shadows Cast
By Stars to a crowd of over 100
people. The novel blends a contemporary feminist sensibility with
Arthurian legends, Greek mythology and Native traditions to create
a rich and captivating story narrated by a Métis character.
Marissa was one of five youth
chosen to speak at the event and
was introduced by Métis National Council representative Marc
LeClair. The evening also featured
Aboriginal music, including Métis
fiddler Anthony Brascoupe.
“It was a great experience that
CODE gave me,” said Marissa. “I’m
so happy that they selected me to
read a passage on behalf of the Métis community.”
First place winner was awarded
to Richard Wagamese for his novel
Indian Horse. Second place was
awarded to Tara Lee Morin for her
novel As I Remember It and third
place to James Bartleman for his
novel As Long as the Rivers Flow.
Congratulations on this great
achievement! ∞
Marissa Hendricks presenting at the
CODE Burt Award for First Nations,
Métis and Inuit Literature Inaugural
Gala at the Museum of Civilization in
Gatineau, Quebec. (Middle) Marissa
Hendricks with Métis author Catherine
Knutsson during the gala.
Métis scientific researcher 1 of 5 in
Canada to receive prestigious award
Submitted by: Richard Cuddy, MNO Credit River Métis Council President and Dr. Melissa Perreault
M
étis Nation of Ontario
(MNO) citizen Dr. Melissa Perreault was recently
one of five basic science researchers
in Canada to be awarded the prestigious National Alliance for Research
on Schizophrenia and Depression
(NARSAD), now known as the Brain
and Behaviour Research Foundation
(BBRF), Young Investigators Award
for 2014.
BBRF is an organization that
plays a pivotal role in providing research support to scientists committed to mental health research. The
goal of the BBRF is to “alleviate the
suffering caused by mental illness
by awarding grants that will lead
to advances and breakthroughs in
scientific research.”
The BBRF selects the most promising ideas for the NARSAD Awards
to young, independent and distinguished investigators. One of the
priority areas of the BBRF is to fund
basic neuroscience research in an attempt to understand what happens
in the brain to cause mental illness.
A researcher at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)
in Toronto, Dr. Perreault acquired
her Ph.D. in psychiatry and behavioral neuroscience. Her research
focuses on discerning the neurobiological mechanisms underlying
cognitive dysfunction in schizo-
phrenia.
“I am optimistic that this research could result in the identification of novel therapeutic targets not
only in schizophrenia, but in other
disorders of cognitive dysfunction,”
stated Dr. Perreault. “As individuals
who are dealing with mental health
issues manifest distinct symptoms,
and therapeutic interventions must
be tailored to each individual patient, it is critical to understand how
these disease processes work from
the level of the gene up to the manifestation of the behaviour.”
Dr. Perreault is one researcher of
a team of basic science and clinical
scientists at CAMH, a facility that
combines mental health research
with clinical care, education, policy
development and health promotion
to help transform the lives of people
affected by mental health and addiction issues. CAMH, among other
agencies in Toronto, offers special
services to Aboriginal peoples experiencing addiction and mental
health issues.
“This award is an exceptional accomplishment and we look forward
to the outcomes of Dr. Perreault’s research in the area of schizophrenia,”
said Dr. Renee Linklater, CAMH’s
Manager of Aboriginal Community
Engagement. “It is promising to see
Métis scientists contributing directly
Dr. Melissa Perreault with MNO Credit River Métis Council President Richard Cuddy.
to the field of evidence in mental
health research. With expertise
existing in the community, it will
further the advancement of Métis
specific interventions that will improve the healing and wellbeing of
Aboriginal populations in general.”
Dr. Perreault’s achievement, like
all Métis success stories, demonstrates how much MNO citizens’
contributions can benefit their own
communities and also the popula-
tion of Ontario and Canada.
Congratulations on this great
achievement! ∞
27
Métis Voyageur
New MNO video
series highlights
Métis success stories
T
he Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) offers a variety
of education and training programs, bursaries and
scholarships in partnership with post-secondary
institutions and employers. These programs have assisted Métis people advance their education and careers
through funding and work placements.
To highlight the success of some
of the Métis who have taken advantage of the MNO’s offerings, the
MNO produced a series of videos
highlighting these individuals in
such fields of trades, health care,
aviation and administration.
One video features Darryl and
Jason Grenier. From Midland, the
Grenier brothers were looking to
further their training in the trades.
After consulting with the MNO, the
brothers received funding to further their education and training in
HVAC and gas fitting. In this video,
the brothers share their experience
of working with the MNO and how
the MNO’s support helped to start
them off in the right direction.
Another video features Justin
Belcourt from Sudbury. Justin
graduated from Aviation College in
pilot training but due to financial
difficulties he could not complete
the second component of his
training, instructor rating. That’s
when he decided to contact the
MNO. The MNO was able to provide
the financial means that allowed
Justin to complete his training and
essentially achieve his dream job as
a flight instructor.
Melissa Folz is also the feature of
a video. Originally from Sault Ste.
Marie, Melissa was a student of the
Sault College and Laurentian University collaborative nursing program. In her fourth year, she was
required to move to Toronto for a
placement at Sunnybrook Hospital,
a move which she could not afford
on her own. The MNO was able to
provide financial support to fund
Melissa’s tuition, books and travel
to complete her degree in nursing.
Melissa is now able to sustain a living in Toronto in a very rewarding
nursing career.
MNO’s very own Guylaine
Morin-Cleroux is also the feature of
another video. Guylaine joined the
MNO through the Métis Training
Strategy Program as a receptionist,
and is currently the Administrative
Coordinator for the MNO’s
Education and Training Branch, a
position that she very much enjoys.
In 2009 she came on board as a
permanent employee which she
still is today and plans to be in the
future. ∞
To watch the videos or for more
information on MNO’s education
and training programs please
visit the MNO website at
www.metisnation.org
Lakehead Supports
Métis Learners
Lakehead University is committed to
helping Métis peoples further their
educational aspirations. Aboriginal
programs at Lakehead offer academic,
research, and cultural support services
tailored to Aboriginal needs.
Office of Aboriginal Initiatives
aboriginalinitiatives.lakeheadu.ca
1-807-766-7219 or toll free 1-888-558-3388
Specialization & Access Programs
Department of Indigenous Learning
Native Nurses Entry Program
Native Access Program
Aboriginal Education
Honours Bachelor of Education (Aboriginal) P/J
Native Teacher Education Program
Native Language Instructors’ Program
Administrative & Support Services
Ofﬁce of Aboriginal Initiatives
Aboriginal Cultural & Support Services
Métis Student Liaison Facilitator
Nanabijou Aboriginal Graduate Enhancement
Lakehead University Aboriginal Alumni Chapter
Lakehead University Native Students Association
Elders Program
Darryl and
Jason Grenier
Justin
Belcourt
Melissa
Folz
Guylaine
Morin-Cleroux
28
Métis Voyageur
Métis youth awarded
Aboriginal Youth
Achievement Award
Submitted by: Huguette Trottier-Frappier
M
étis Nation of Ontario (MNO) youth
member MélanieRose Frappier has been selected as one of the recipients of the Aboriginal Youth
Achievement Award which she
received at the award ceremony in Ottawa on October 18.
The award recognizes
youth for their perseverance
and dedication to the Aboriginal community and for their
achievements and contributions as role models. Frappier
is an active youth member of
the MNO and was one of the
participants of the 2013 MNO
Infinite Reach March Break
Camp in Mattawa.
Frappier is an active participant in various Aboriginal
events such as Louis Riel Day
and National Aboriginal Day
in her Sudbury community.
She also had an important
leadership role as Northern
Ontario’s representative in the
Youth Ambassador of Canada
program, which included the
experience of a three-week
student exchange in the United States.
Congratulations on this
great achievement! ∞
MNO assistance
helps Métis youth
achieve career goal
Mélanie-Rose
Frappier with her
Aboriginal Youth
Achievement
Award during the
award ceremony
in Ottawa.
Young Métis artist
receives first award
Submitted by: Loma Rowlinson,
MNO Aboriginal Responsible Gambling Provincial Coordinator
D
akota Rowlinson, a
new and young Métis artist received his
first award. The 11 year old
son of Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) staffers Hank and
Loma Rowlinson, is one of the
winners of a Christmas drawing contest that was hosted by
the Caisse Populaire in eastern
Ontario.
Darkota’s image is one of
four that is being printed as
Christmas cards to be used by
the bank this year. He also received a cash award.
Dakota has been drawing
for over four years and has a
collection of over 150 images
being housed in two binders at
home. He started to advance
his skills by creating dimensional drawings using shading
techniques and has recently
taken up the challenge of creating charcoal images. His
winning photo was created
using a simple HB pencil and
took him two hours to create.
Congratulations on this
great achievement! ∞
(Left to right) Madame
Louise Lafontaine direction
adjointe, Madame Jacynthe
Levac direction, Dakota and
Sophie Bergeron.
“Père
Noël” by 11
year old Métis
artist, Dakota
Robinson.
Nick Allard in front of the Health Canada building in Ottawa.
T
he transition from school to
work can be difficult for new
graduates. Entering the competitive job market with little work experience is a hurdle new Métis graduates
often face, but with assistance can be
overcome. The Métis Nation of Ontario
(MNO) provides a variety of programs
and services to help Métis people overcome such barriers and achieve their
highest potential. These programs help
Métis people advance their education
and careers through funding and work
placements.
Nick Allard is an example of one
young MNO citizen who has experienced firsthand the benefits of MNO’s
education and training programs. Currently residing in Ottawa, Allard is a
Senior Regulatory Affairs Officer for
Health Canada. A position he believes
would have been difficult to achieve
without the assistance of the MNO.
While completing the process to obtain MNO citizenship in his hometown
of Sault Ste. Marie, Allard inquired
about MNO education and training
programs. That’s when Fran Sheepmaker, a MNO Regional Employment and
Training Coordinator informed him
about two MNO programs that would
create the transition from university
to work much easier. Sheepmaker is
one of many MNO employees across
Ontario whose job is to assist Métis
like Allard.
Working with Sheepmaker, Allard
approached the Sault Area Hospital
with the concept of creating a summer
internship through MNO’s Summer
Career Placement Program. MNO was
able to provide the funding to subsidize the wage and make the idea of the
position into a reality. In the summer
of his fourth year in the Biomedical
Sciences program at the University of
Waterloo, Allard moved back to Sault
Ste. Marie to begin this new internship
as a Research Intern.
“The program helped me quite a
bit,” explained Allard. “It gave me a
Without
MNO’s
assistance it
would have
been much
more difficult
to get this
position,
a position
which I
love and is
exactly what
I wanted
to do.”
— Nick Allard
lot of hands on experience in clinical
research and helped me see into the
industry and essentially where I wanted
to go with my career.”
The experience gained through this
internship did not only confirm Allard’s
career path, but also provided essential
real life work experience which proved
useful when applying for graduate
studies.
“Having this experience on my resume really helped me in the interview
process after graduation,” said Allard.
“It intrigued a lot of employers and
brought in more interviews. It also was
essential to getting accepted into my
post-secondary program in Pharmaceutical Regulatory Affairs at Seneca
College.”
This was not the only way the MNO
helped Allard achieve his second diploma. Through the MNO Métis Training
Purchase Program, the MNO provided
funding which paid for his year’s tuition
and also assisted with his living expenses, which in Toronto can be quite high.
“This diploma was critical,” explained Allard. “It is what got me my
internship with Health Canada and after graduating I was bridged in to the
position I hold today. Without MNO’s
assistance it would have been much
more difficult to get this position, a
position which I love and is exactly
what I want to do.”
Allard sees MNO’s programs as a
real benefit not only for himself but
for other Métis youth. He concluded
by saying:
“Thank you MNO for helping me
establish my career path. MNO’s programs played a key role in my education and finding employment afterwards. I would like to encourage other
Métis youth to look into and take advantage of these programs because they
help provide funding and invaluable
career experience.” ∞

Historic - Métis Nation of Ontario

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